Living with Long COVID: Navigating a Forgotten Pandemic

Life feels like it’s split into two worlds these days. There’s the world of people who have “moved on” from COVID—living life as if the pandemic never happened—and then there’s ours: the world of people with long COVID, and other Chronic Illness, where every step forward feels like climbing Everest. For many of us, life … Continue reading Living with Long COVID: Navigating a Forgotten Pandemic

Common Nasal Problems in Long COVID Patients

Long COVID can significantly affect nasal functions, causing persistent congestion, loss, or distortion of smell, and sinus infections. Conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome may exacerbate symptoms. Simple remedies include saline irrigation and humidifiers, while professional treatments like nasal endoscopy and olfactory training may help restore normal function.

T-Cell Exhaustion in Long COVID: What You Need to Know

Long COVID fatigue can be attributed to exhausted T-cells, crucial white blood cells in the immune response. Prolonged infection leads to T-cell dysfunction, contributing to chronic symptoms. Research indicates T-cell exhaustion persists post-infection. Strategies like immunomodulators, supplements, and a healthy lifestyle may aid recovery and restore T-cell health.

Understanding Cognitive Decline in Long COVID Patients

Emerging research provides deeper insights into how long COVID affects the brain, particularly through persistent SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins and their inflammatory impacts. Here’s a look at the findings and their implications for long COVID sufferers: Persistent Spike Proteins and Brain Inflammation Recent studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins can remain in the brain's protective … Continue reading Understanding Cognitive Decline in Long COVID Patients

Long COVID and Nail Changes: What Your Fingernails Are Trying to Tell You

Nail changes, such as Beau's Lines and Mees' Lines, can signal health issues in individuals with long COVID. These alterations reflect inflammation, poor circulation, or nutritional deficiencies. Tracking these changes may aid diagnosis, and maintaining a nail diary, proper nutrition, and professional consultations can support overall health during recovery.

Long COVID: The Real, Invisible Challenge

Long COVID is a serious, physical condition that goes beyond ordinary fatigue, impacting daily life. It manifests as debilitating symptoms like extreme tiredness, brain fog, and unpredictable energy levels. Society's misunderstanding creates stigma, hindering support. Increased research, accessible treatments, and medical training are crucial for proper recognition and care for those affected.

Understanding the Benefits of Perching Stools for Chronic Illnesses

The author shares their unexpected journey with a perching stool, initially viewed with skepticism due to its unappealing design. However, it soon becomes a vital tool during their Long COVID recovery, providing comfort and stability, particularly for those with autonomic dysfunction. The stool proves functional, despite its lack of aesthetics.

Understanding Muscle Weakness in Long COVID

Long COVID significantly impacts muscle strength due to factors like damaged mitochondria, inadequate oxygen delivery, lactic acid buildup, and inflammation. Managing muscle weakness requires pacing activities, gentle physiotherapy, alternating hot and cold therapy, and potentially using supplements. Recovery is gradual and should prioritize body kindness and patience.

Homemade Electrolyte Drink for POTS Relief

The author shares their experience with long COVID and autonomic dysfunction, specifically POTS, which causes dizziness and fainting. They found electrolytes helpful for managing symptoms and offer a recipe for a homemade electrolyte drink. This drink aids hydration without added sugars, benefiting those with similar health conditions. Always consult a doctor before trying new remedies.

Understanding Dysautonomia and POTS: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management Tips

Post-COVID dysautonomia, particularly POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), leads to symptoms like dizziness and fatigue when standing. It often results from COVID-related inflammation or nerve damage. Daily life includes struggles with heat, exercise, digestion, and brain fog, requiring humor and adjustments, such as increased salt intake and hydration.

What Isn’t Long COVID? Debunking the Misconceptions

Long COVID is a serious and misunderstood condition characterized by lasting symptoms like chronic fatigue, brain fog, and muscle pain. It is not imaginary or caused solely by stress, laziness, or a positive attitude. Awareness and understanding are vital for providing support to those affected and dispelling myths surrounding this complex illness.

Celebrating small victories: Living with Long COVID

The author reflects on the significance of small victories while living with long COVID, such as walking for a cappuccino. They highlight the emotional complexities tied to these moments, describing shifts in the perception of success and self-care. Celebrating minor achievements is emphasized as essential for resilience and finding joy amidst challenges.

Understanding Long COVID: More Than Just Deconditioning

Long COVID is a complex condition distinct from simple deconditioning. It presents unique symptoms like brain fog, nerve pain, and post-exertional malaise (PEM), where exertion causes severe fatigue. Autonomic dysfunction further complicates recovery, making exercise challenging. Research indicates it’s not linked to laziness or lack of fitness but involves systemic issues needing careful management.