Long COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a condition in which symptoms persist for several months after the acute phase of Covid-19 infection has passed. As Naturopathic and holistic practitioners, we believe it is essential to understand the mechanisms behind Long Covid and its impact on the whole person, including physical, emotional, and mental health.
Long Covid is a multisystem inflammatory disorder that affects several organs, including the lungs, heart, brain, kidneys, and liver. As the inflammation can be so widespread amongst the different body systems, symptoms are also varied and can occur months after infection.
Symptoms may include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Brain fog
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Joint pain
- Muscle weakness
- Neuropathy
- Palpitations and many more.
Naturopathic and holistic medicine recognizes that inflammation is often a root cause of many chronic conditions and focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying factors that contribute to inflammation.
One of the key mechanisms behind Long Covid is the virus’s action on the ACE-2 receptors in the body. The virus attaches to these receptors, which are found in the lungs, heart, blood vessels, uterus and other organs, leading to inflammation and dysfunction of these organs and body systems. The ACE-2 receptors are also involved in regulating blood pressure, and their dysfunction can lead to cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. Naturopathic and holistic medicine recognizes the importance of optimizing the body’s regulatory systems, including the cardiovascular and metabolic systems, to promote optimal health.
Amongst age, weight, poor mental health and asthma – poor general health has been found to be a risk factor for long covid. Therefore optimizing your health prior to catching Covid-19 can help prevent getting Long Covid. Naturopathic and holistic approaches focus on improving overall health through herbal medicine, specific nutrients as well as dietary and lifestyle interventions, such as individualised diet plans, stress reduction techniques, and appropriate exercise. Supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms prior to illness may help reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions, including Long Covid. ‘
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Long Covid also has significant mental health effects. Many individuals with Long Covid experience anxiety, depression, and PTSD-like symptoms, such as flashbacks and hypervigilance. These mental health effects can be debilitating and contribute to a cycle of chronic inflammation and fatigue. Naturopathic and holistic medicine recognizes the importance of addressing the whole person, including their mental and emotional health, to support healing and recovery. Naturopathy has a range of interventions such as herbs, flower essences and nutrients which can support regulation of the nervous system and help reduce these symptoms.
In conclusion, Long Covid is a complex and multifaceted condition that may benefit from a holistic and naturopathic approach to healing and recovery. By addressing the underlying causes of inflammation, supporting the body’s natural healing mechanisms, optimizing health prior to illness, and addressing mental and emotional health, individuals with Long Covid can optimize their recovery and regain their health and vitality.
If you think you may have long COVID or you would like to work on prevention book in a consult here
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