As the fall and winter seasons approach, the incidence of cardiovascular diseases tends to rise significantly. Dr. Sun Ningling, the chief physician of the cardiology department at Peking University People’s Hospital, warns that the cold air can cause severe vasoconstriction in patients with cardiovascular conditions, leading to potential vessel obstruction and triggering episodes or recurrences of heart disease. She advises that anyone experiencing sudden symptoms such as angina or chest tightness should seek medical attention immediately.
Shingles, a common infectious disease among middle-aged and older adults, poses a particular risk for those with cardiovascular issues. Dr. Sun notes that patients with cardiovascular diseases have a 39% increased risk of developing shingles compared to the general population. Furthermore, the risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, escalates shortly after shingles appears.
Dr. Sun emphasizes that cardiovascular disease is not an isolated condition and often coexists with other factors like hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. These coexisting conditions can impair immune function, raising the risk of developing shingles.
It’s also important to note that the pain associated with shingles can be easily mistaken for angina pain. Therefore, individuals experiencing chest pain should visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis. For patients with coronary heart disease, contracting shingles can be particularly dangerous, as the pain may lead to vessel obstruction and spasms, increasing the likelihood of coronary artery narrowing or even sudden death.
Pain is not something to take lightly. For older adults with chronic diseases, it’s crucial not to “tough it out” when experiencing discomfort. Shingles-related pain can be deceptive, with varied symptoms that can easily confuse both patients and healthcare professionals.
Dr. Sun advises that if the pain is primarily in the chest or back, especially on the left side, and a cardiac evaluation does not reveal any heart-related issues, it’s essential to consult a pain specialist promptly to rule out shingles.
