Diabetes, hypertension and even viral infections can cause sudden heart failure, warns cardiologist

High blood pressure, diabetes, and even common viral infections can undermine the heart’s strength (Picture Credit: Pexels)

It usually starts with a dull heaviness in the chest, followed by a creeping shortness of breath that makes climbing the stairs feel like a mountain expedition. Many brush it off as fatigue, however, these subtle signs may warn sudden heart failure.

High blood pressure, diabetes, and even common viral infections are often underestimated, yet together, they undermine the heart’s strength, sometimes with deadly consequences. Dr Jitendra Nath Patnaik, Senior Consultant, Cardiothoracic Vascular Surgery, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, shares, “These conditions don’t just exist separately—they compound each other, creating a perfect storm that can suddenly overwhelm the heart.”

High blood pressure is often called the silent killer. “The heart is forced to pump against constant resistance,” says Dr. Patnaik. “Over time, it thickens and stiffens. It looks stronger on the outside, but inside, it’s struggling to function.” This stiffening, known as left ventricular hypertrophy, limits the heart’s ability to fill and pump efficiently, paving the way for exhaustion, heart strain, and eventual failure. Most people feel nothing until it’s too late.

Also read: From walking with a stick to now doing pilates at 86, know Salman Khan's step mother's fitness secret

Diabetes raises blood sugar and attacks the heart on two fronts. “High glucose levels damage blood vessels, triggering inflammation and plaque buildup, while also harming heart cells directly,” says Dr. Patnaik. This dual assault can lead to diabetic cardiomyopathy, weakening the heart and raising the risk of sudden failure even without prior coronary artery disease. A run-of-the-mill viral infection can sometimes escalate into myocarditis, where the heart muscle itself is inflamed. Dr. Patnaik notes, “The immune system may mistakenly attack the heart while fighting the virus, reducing its pumping efficiency and causing dangerous arrhythmias.” For those with underlying conditions, even a mild infection can trigger sudden heart trouble.

When hypertension, diabetes, and infections intersect, the danger multiplies. Chronic stress, inflammation, and oxygen deprivation form a vicious cycle that strains the heart like a tightly coiled spring. “Individually, these risks are serious—but together, they can push an already vulnerable heart into acute failure,” he warns.

Also read: Sleeping for less than 6 hours every night? Doctors have a warning that you must not ignore

Dr Patnaik shares tips to protect your heart:

• Many health risks can be reduced through early management.
• Good control of blood pressure and blood sugar helps prevent complications.
• Timely vaccinations and treatment for infections support heart health.
• Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise are heart-healthy habits.
• Managing one risk factor effectively often helps protect against others.
• The heart and blood vessels are closely connected, influencing cardiovascular health.
• The shape of the heart can reflect overall health and lifestyle quality.
• Prevention isn’t just about avoiding disease, it’s about protecting the heart.

1. How does high blood pressure affect the heart?
It forces the heart to work harder, which can thicken and weaken the heart muscle over time.

2. Can high blood pressure cause heart disease?
Yes, it’s a leading risk factor for heart disease, heart attacks, and heart failure.

3. Does high blood pressure damage arteries?
It can — constant pressure weakens artery walls, making them less elastic and more prone to plaque buildup.

4. Can controlling blood pressure improve heart health?
Absolutely — keeping BP in a healthy range reduces stress on the heart and lowers disease risk.

5. What lifestyle changes help lower blood pressure?
Eat less salt, stay active, manage stress, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid smoking or excess alcohol.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.