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Wednesday, September 11, 2024 — Researchers have uncovered a potential link between persistent throat issues post-Covid and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. According to a study from the University of Southampton, individuals suffering from chronic cough, recurrent throat clearing, and hoarseness—symptoms commonly associated with laryngopharyngeal dysfunction—may be at a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events.
The study highlights a reduction in baroreflex sensitivity—the heart’s ability to regulate blood pressure—among patients with lingering throat symptoms. The findings, published in JAMA Otolaryngology, raise concerns that unresolved throat-related dysfunction could compromise heart health in the long term.
Disrupted Reflexes and the Role of the Vagus Nerve
The research team, led by Professor Reza Nouraei, a specialist in Laryngology and Clinical Informatics, suggested that the disruption of delicate throat reflexes, potentially caused by viral infections like Covid-19, might be impairing the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure. The study explains that the Vagus nerve, which controls essential bodily functions including heart rate and blood pressure, might prioritize protecting the airways over other functions, such as maintaining cardiovascular stability.
“Our immediate survival depends on the throat being able to separate air and food passages each time we swallow,” said Professor Nouraei. “When these reflexes are disturbed—whether due to a viral infection or reflux that affects the nerves in this region—the control of this critical junction is compromised, resulting in throat-related symptoms.”
Study Findings and Cardiovascular Implications
The study involved 23 patients who were admitted for ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgery with symptoms like chronic cough, throat clearing, and painful swallowing. The researchers compared these patients’ heart rates, blood pressure, and baroreflex sensitivity to those of 30 patients admitted to gastroenterology with digestive symptoms. While reflux was a common factor in both groups, those with aerodigestive symptoms had higher resting heart rates and lower baroreflex sensitivity.
“Patients with a faulty throat appear to have less control over heart function, specifically baroreflex,” said Nouraei. “This reduced baroreflex sensitivity can likely impact long-term survival, as it increases the likelihood of heart attack or stroke in the future.”
Post-Covid Health Risks and Broader Implications
Since Covid-19 has been shown to damage nerves, particularly the Vagus nerve, healthcare professionals are observing a growing number of patients with post-viral throat symptoms. The study urges clinicians to take a more holistic approach when treating such patients, addressing throat dysfunctions that may be impacting broader health systems, including heart function.
“If we can fix a problem in the throat that is potentially taking away bandwidth from the Vagus nerve, we free up the nerve to perform its other critical functions, such as maintaining cardiovascular stability,” Nouraei added.
This research highlights the need for continued post-Covid monitoring and underscores the importance of addressing seemingly minor throat issues, as they may signal greater health risks.
