Treatment options for long COVID can be complex and varied, but there are a few main areas of focus. The primary goal is to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and get the patient back to their pre-illness baseline as quickly and safely as possible.
The first step in any long-haul COVID treatment protocol is a thorough evaluation, which includes a physical exam, laboratory tests (such as CBC), imaging studies (such as chest x-ray or CT scan), and another testing if necessary. This helps diagnose any underlying conditions that might be contributing to the patient’s symptoms. These tests also help rule out other causes of the symptoms so that appropriate treatment can begin.
Once an accurate diagnosis has been made, treatment can begin. Treatment for long-haul COVID will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and underlying health conditions.
At-Home Long Covid Treatments
Rest and Activity Modification: During this stage, patients should focus on getting enough rest while gradually increasing physical activity as they are able. This helps reduce fatigue and improve overall energy levels.
Diet and Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients can help you stay healthy and support your body in recovering from long-haul covid. This includes eating lots of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Additionally, drinking lots of water can help keep the body hydrated which is important for those with long-haul covid as dehydration can make it difficult to recover.
Nutrient Supplementation: with vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, vitamin D, and melatonin. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatments or supplements. Overall, more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these therapies, but long covid supplements offer hope for those struggling with long covid.
By taking an active role in managing their symptoms, patients can take an approach that is tailored to their specific needs and lifestyle. It is important to discuss which treatments are best for each individual with your doctor or healthcare provider.
Alternative Long Covid Treatments
Several alternative therapies are being explored as potential treatments for long covid. These treatments aim to tackle the diverse range of symptoms that long covid patients experience such as fatigue, muscle pain, brain fog, depression, and anxiety.
- Stellate ganglion block for Covid: SGB injections are emerging as a promising treatment for long covid. This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion nerve bundle in the neck. This helps to reset the nervous system and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Studies have shown that patients who receive stellate ganglion block injections for covid experience significant improvements in both physical and mental symptoms associated with long covid. This includes improvements in fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath. While more research is needed, early results indicate that this treatment could be a game-changer for individuals who suffer from the long-term effects of covid-19.
- Acupuncture: has been used for centuries to alleviate pain and improve overall wellness. Another therapy is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves teaching patients how to change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their symptoms. Yoga and meditation are also being explored as potential treatments, as they can help reduce stress, increase oxygen intake, and improve overall physical and mental wellness.
- Massage therapy: The main goal of massage therapy is to help promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and reduce pain, which can all help alleviate some of the physical symptoms associated with long Covid. Massage therapy can also help to boost the immune system, which is important for individuals who are dealing with the after-effects of Covid-19. Because Covid-19 is a respiratory illness, it can cause respiratory complications such as shortness of breath, and massage therapy can be effective in improving respiratory function.
- Yoga: Yoga can be a beneficial treatment for individuals experiencing long Covid. Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote relaxation and relieve stress. One of the main physical symptoms of long Covid is fatigue, and yoga has been shown to help reduce fatigue and improve overall physical function in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome. Additionally, yoga can improve respiratory and cardiovascular function, which can be helpful for individuals dealing with the respiratory and cardiovascular effects of long Covid.
Additional Therapy Options for Long Covid
Occupational therapy, physical therapy, and Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can all be beneficial treatments for individuals recovering from long Covid.
- Occupational therapy: This approach focuses on helping patients regain independence and improve their ability to perform everyday activities, such as cooking, dressing, and driving. The therapy involves identifying specific challenges and developing strategies to overcome them, such as using adaptive equipment and modifying task demands. Occupational therapy can also help with managing fatigue, brain fog, and stress.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapists can work with patients to develop personalized plan to improve their strength, endurance, and mobility. They can also help manage pain or discomfort associated with long Covid. Additionally, physical therapy can help address respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: CBT can be an effective treatment option for the psychological symptoms associated with long Covid, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to these conditions. Additionally, CBT can incorporate relaxation techniques to manage stress and improve sleep.
Overall, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and CBT can all play an important role in the recovery process for patients with long Covid. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for the individual patient.
Long Covid Support
If you are looking for a doctor who specializes in long Covid support to treat your long haul covid, ask your current healthcare provider if they have any recommendations or look online for specialists in the area. It is important to find someone who has experience treating this condition and understands it well. Be sure to ask about their credentials and qualifications as well as any potential side effects associated with different treatments.
Several types of doctors and healthcare professionals may be involved in the long hauler treatment, depending on the patient’s specific symptoms and needs. Here are some types of doctors and healthcare professionals who may be involved in the treatment of long Covid:
1. Primary care physician – This is usually the first healthcare provider a patient sees for evaluation and diagnosis of long Covid. They can refer the patient to specialists as necessary.
2. Pulmonologist – This is a doctor who specializes in treating respiratory and lung-related diseases. They can help patients manage shortness of breath and other respiratory symptoms associated with long Covid.
3. Cardiologist – This is a doctor who specializes in treating heart-related conditions. They can help patients manage symptoms related to long Covid-induced cardiovascular effects.
4. Neurologist – This is a doctor who specializes in treating conditions of the nervous system. They can help patients manage neurological symptoms associated with long Covid, such as brain fog and cognitive impairment.
5. Psychologist or Psychiatrist – These professionals can provide psychological support and treatment for patients with long Covid who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
6. Rehabilitation specialist – This is a healthcare professional who specializes in physical and occupational therapy. They can help patients regain physical function and improve quality of life.
Overall, managing long Covid symptoms may require a multidisciplinary approach that involves various healthcare professionals. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for an individual’s specific needs.
6. Pain Management Specialist – Pain management specialists are medical professionals who are trained to diagnose, treat and manage pain. They use a variety of techniques to help individuals manage both acute and chronic pain caused by a variety of conditions. For long Covid a pain management specialists can administer Stellate ganglion block injections.
Long Haul Covid Treatment At Pain and Spine Specialists
At pain and spine specialists we have over 20 years of experience administering minimally invasive injections. If you are suffering from long covid and would like to discuss treatment options you can contact us by phone or through our contact form here. We have locations in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Frequently asked questions about long Covid treatment:
A: There is no one “best” treatment for long Covid. The treatment plan will vary depending on the individual patient’s symptoms and needs. A combination of medical treatments, alternative therapies, and psychological interventions may be necessary.
A: Medications may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms associated with long Covid, such as pain, inflammation, and shortness of breath. However, no specific medication has been approved to treat long Covid.
3. What alternative therapies can help with long Covid?
A: Acupuncture, massage therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, yoga, and meditation are some alternative therapies that are being explored as potential treatments for long Covid. However, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
A: Yes, physical therapy can help improve strength, endurance, and mobility, and can also help manage pain, respiratory, and cardiovascular issues associated with long Covid.
A: The recovery time for long Covid varies from person to person. Some people may experience a full recovery within a few weeks or months, while others may take longer. Some people may experience lingering symptoms for a year or more.