New Study Links Long Covid to Hypertension and Heart Issues
New evidence from AIIMS Delhi has highlighted a concerning link between long COVID and an increased risk of developing hypertension and cardiac complications. The findings were presented at the Cardiovascular Research Convergence (CRC) 2025 held at Gujarat Biotechnology University, where experts stressed the need for ongoing monitoring of patients even after recovery from COVID-19.
Long Covid and Hypertension: Key Findings
The first study, “New Onset of Hypertension in Long Covid”, led by Krishna Baudh from AIIMS Delhi, followed 306 patients between the ages of 18 and 72 for two years after their initial Covid infection.
- Nearly 1 in 5 patients (19.3%) developed new hypertension during the follow-up.
- More than half of these patients had required hospitalisation during the acute infection.
- Around 49% of them had also needed oxygen support.
- Hospital-related complications were more common in patients who developed new hypertension compared to those who already had the condition.
- Interestingly, researchers observed that the onset of hypertension did not appear to alter overall inflammation levels.
- Only one patient developed diabetes during the post-COVID phase.
These findings underline that long Covid can trigger fresh health challenges, particularly high blood pressure, even in individuals who previously had no history of hypertension.
Cardiac Abnormalities in Patients with Pre-existing Hypertension
The second study, conducted by Preeti Singh from the University of Delhi in collaboration with AIIMS Delhi’s post-COVID clinic and cardiology department, focused on cardiac health. Data from 325 patients aged 18–72 were analysed.
- 6.5% (21 patients) developed new cardiac abnormalities following COVID-19 infection.
- Among 69 patients with pre-existing hypertension, 11.6% went on to develop cardiac issues, showing a higher risk in this subgroup.
- Additionally, 17% of hypertensive patients continued to experience long Covid symptoms such as:
- Breathlessness
- Fatigue
- Muscle and joint pain
- General weakness
- Chest pain
The researchers concluded that patients with hypertension are particularly vulnerable to post-COVID cardiac complications and therefore require regular cardiovascular follow-ups.
Why These Studies Matter
City-based experts noted that these results mirror what clinicians have been observing globally: Covid-19’s effects extend far beyond the lungs. While lung damage and breathing difficulties are the most visible outcomes, patients are increasingly reporting longer-term issues affecting the heart and blood vessels.
The studies reinforce that long Covid is not just a lingering cough or tiredness; it can silently raise the risk of hypertension and cardiac disease. This makes post-recovery medical supervision critical, especially for those who were hospitalised, required oxygen, or already had underlying hypertension.
Conclusion
The AIIMS studies make it clear: long Covid and risk of hypertension and cardiac issues are closely linked, and ignoring these red flags may lead to serious consequences in the years ahead. Physicians recommend routine blood pressure checks, heart monitoring, and lifestyle modifications for COVID-19 survivors, particularly those with a history of hypertension.
Source:Â Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
Conclusion
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 17 September 2025
- 20:00
