Understanding and Managing Long COVID Fatigue
COVID-19 may no longer dominate headlines, but its persistence and those having lingering effects continue to affect many people. For some, complications don’t end after their initial infection recedes. Instead, they experience what’s come to be known as Long COVID, a condition where symptoms persist for weeks or even months after the acute phase of the illness has passed. Among the most common and debilitating symptoms of Long COVID is fatigue, which can significantly impact one’s quality of life.
What is Long COVID Fatigue?
Recent research continues to shed light on why some individuals suffer long after recovering from their immediate COVID-19 infection. A study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and published in Science Translational Medicine found that inflammation may play a critical role in the persistent symptoms associated with Long COVID. The research used animal models and human tissue samples to explore how COVID-19 affects different systems in the body, even after the virus itself was no longer detectable using traditional tests.
One key finding from this study was the prolonged inflammation in the olfactory system (the parts of the nose and brain responsible for smell) and its potential connection to other neurological symptoms, which may account for symptoms such as brain fog and mood disorders. “This also indicates that perhaps the virus has damaged brain cells, and inflammation is persisting within the brain well after the body’s initial inflammatory response,” adds virologist Dr. John A. Lednicky, Ph.D. of the Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida.
How Inflammation Leads to Fatigue
Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to infection or injury, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to various health problems, including fatigue. In the context of Long COVID, the study found that inflammation could persist in areas of the brain linked to smell, emotion, and cognitive function. This persistent inflammation might be responsible for the continued feelings of exhaustion that many Long COVID patients experience.
Fatigue in Long COVID isn't just about feeling tired; it's more akin to profound exhaustion that can make even simple daily tasks feel overwhelming. It's often accompanied by other symptoms like muscle weakness, headaches, and difficulty concentrating, making it a multifaceted problem that requires detailed attention and comprehensive management.
AZENA Health & Longevity's Approach to Managing Long COVID Fatigue
At AZENA Health & Longevity, we have closely followed the complexities of Long COVID and the profound impact it can have on your quality of life. That's why we've developed a wellness program to help manage inflammation. Our approach is based on the latest research and is designed to address the underlying causes of your symptoms, not just the symptoms themselves. While there currently is no cure, there seems to be promise in treating the deeper, underlying issues such as inflammation to allow the body some relief and assistance in healing.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Our first step is a thorough assessment to understand the extent of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. This includes a detailed medical history and may involve specialized tests to assess inflammation levels and other markers that may be related to long-term COVID.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Based on your assessment, we develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan may include anti-inflammatory strategies, nutritional support, physical or cognitive therapies, and other interventions designed to reduce inflammation and restore energy levels while supporting your overall health and wellness.
- Ongoing Support and Monitoring: We provide support and monitoring to assist your treatment plan, including making adjustments as and when needed.
Why Choose AZENA Health & Longevity?
At AZENA, we strive to keep abreast of the latest research, such as the NIH-funded study on long-term COVID, which implies the importance of addressing inflammation to manage symptoms effectively. As with any medical treatment, there are no guarantees, especially concerning little-understood conditions such as Long COVID. That said, we take a “whole”istic approach, including many aspects of your condition that may help you manage and regain control, and lead a better quality of life.
Long COVID can be a challenging and unpredictable condition, but with the right support and treatment, it is possible to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you’re struggling with fatigue or other symptoms of Long COVID, AZENA Health & Longevity is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our specialized program and how we can support your recovery journey.
National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2022, September 22). Long COVID symptoms linked to inflammation. NIH Research Matters. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/long-covid-symptoms-linked-inflammation
