The Long Haul COVID syndrome (post-COVID syndrome)
If you or a loved one are experiencing prolonged symptoms following a COVID-19 infection you may have a condition known as Long Haul COVID Syndrome.
The Long Haul COVID Syndrome (LHCS) is characterized by prolonged malaise, headaches, generalized fatigue, hair loss, sleep difficulties, painful joints, dyspnea, chest pain, smell disorder, decreased appetite, cognitive dysfunction (brain fog), and light headedness and dizziness.
Several studies show that up to 80% of patients experience prolonged illness after COVID-19. LHCS may persist for months after the acute infection and almost half of patients report reduced quality of life.
LHCS is not predicted based on the severity of COVID symptoms. People with mild to moderate cases and younger adults that did not require respiratory support or intensive care may develop LHCS.
The symptoms of LHCS resemble the symptoms of chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS)/Myalgic encephalomyelitis- also known more commonly as chronic fatigue syndrome and mast cell activation syndrome. The pathophysiology of this syndrome is poorly understood.
LHCS and be grouped into multiple groups due to the body system that it negatively impacts.
These include:
- Respiratory- shortness of breath, congestion, and persistent cough.
- Neurological- brain fog, fatigue, headaches/migraines, depression, inability to focus, vertigo, panic attack, increased anxiety, insomnia.
- Musculoskeletal: body pain, weakness, joint pain, inability to exercise, post-exertional malaise.
- Cardiovascular: Palpitations, changes in blood pressure, changes in heart rate patterns.
- Autonomic: Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), increased sweating.
- Gastrointestinal: decreased appetite, diarrhea, bloating, nausea.
- Skin and mucus membranes: Itching, rashes, sneezing, burning and itchy eyes.
The good news is there are effective treatments available. If you or a loved one believe you are experiencing symptoms related to Long Haul COVID syndrome, please call us to schedule an appointment and get on your way to feeling yourself again.
