They’re called long-haulers: those who have had COVID-19 and recovered, only to feel detrimental effects of the virus weeks to months (and possibly more) after.
There seems to be little rhyme or reason as to who and why these ramifications arise, but as we begin to learn more, we are witnessing how naturopathic medicine can help restore function and health.
Long-term effects vary widely and can include, but are not limited to:
– fatigue
– brain fog
– lack of concentration
– memory loss
– anxiety, depression, panic attacks
– lung and bronchial inflammation and damage
– lingering cough
– shortness of breath
– chest pain
– muscle, joint pain
– headache
– sleep issues
– gut distress
– diarrhea
– gas and bloating
– weight loss
– low exercise tolerance
– histamine issues which flare up allergies, asthma
as well as overall inflammation throughout the body.
How are these treated?
When visiting a general practitioner or Western medicine specialist for these issues, medications are typically prescribed for symptom management.
At our office, we use naturopathic medicine to restore proper function in the body and work towards healing the root cause. This is done with such therapies as acupuncture, supplements, cupping, massage, holistic counseling, and lifestyle changes.
While we tend to see much improvement with naturopathic treatments, occasionally, both medications and natural medicine are needed for relief and improvement.
So what should you do if you may be experiencing long-term effects from COVID-19?
First and foremost, it’s important to rule out any life-threatening illness such as pneumonia, heart damage, or other serious medical conditions.
Next, schedule a complimentary 15 minute phone consultation with Dr. Graves.
Whether you are currently working with your primary care doctor or if general practitioners have been unable to help you, Dr. Graves will analyze your symptoms and discuss a customized naturopathic approach to addressing your issues.
For example:
Does your nervous system need calm and restoration for less anxiety and better sleep?
Is your gut in need of healing for better digestion?
Does your musculoskeletal system require attention for muscle and pain management?
Dr. Graves will look at each of these (and more, if needed) in how each system in the body is working both individually and together as a whole for a customized treatment plan.
In addition to any individualized treatment and recommendations from Dr. Graves, an anti-inflammatory diet is typically suggested to lower overall inflammation in the body which includes:
– eating a rainbow of fresh fruit and vegetables daily
– limiting processed and fast foods
– getting proper hydration
– consuming omega 3 fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel, oysters, sardines, flax seeds, walnuts, and Omega 3 fortified eggs
If you are suffering from long-term COVID-19 effects or know someone who is, it’s important that you seek support as soon as possible in order to gain your health back, and naturopathic medicine may be the option you are in need of.
To discuss your symptoms, ask questions, and learn about what natural therapies may be able to help, please call us at (303) 688-6698 or click here to schedule a complimentary 15 minute phone call with Dr. Graves.
Our office provides naturopathic support for those in Castle Rock, Castle Pines, Highlands Ranch, Lone Tree, Centennial, Parker, Larkspur, Monument, Colorado Springs, and the greater Denver metro area in person at our office. We also offer virtual appointments for those outside of these areas.
REFERENCES:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-long-term-effects/art-20490351
https://www.drweil.com/diet-nutrition/anti-inflammatory-diet-pyramid/dr-weils-anti-inflammatory-diet/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-omega-3-rich-foods#13.-Other-Foods?
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