Chronic neck pain has been a growing problem since the arrival of handheld technology. “Text Neck,” also called forward head posture, is a condition caused by the repetitive stress placed on the cervical spine from looking down. In addition to chronic neck pain, bending your neck for too long may also cause upper shoulder pain, headaches, muscle stiffness and postural changes. But neck pain can also be an important clue to the existence of underlying health issues.
Looking down for an extended period of time puts you at risk of overstretching the supporting muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the cervical spine. These elastic structures should recoil back to normal, but there are many reasons why the connective tissue in the neck doesn’t rebound, including:
Disc problems – cervical discs can wear out and start to degenerate over time, making the neck feel painful and stiff.
Facet Arthritis – when cartilage that covers the ends of the facet joints wear out pain and stiffness can result.
Hypermobility Syndromes – neck pain, headaches, “heavy head” are all common symptoms of cervical hypermobility.
Hormonal Changes – cervical spine (neck) problems could be an indicator of low thyroid in women and low testosterone in men
Chronic Infection – untreated viral and bacterial infections can lead to painful inflammation of the neck muscles.
Altered Metabolism – Chronic neck pain has also been associated with metabolic syndrome and a high body mass index.
Nutritional Deficiencies – B12 and Vitamin D deficiencies can cause or worsen neck pain.
Emotional Stress – Many people “carry stress” in their neck which presents as pain and can cause real physiological changes.
Diagnosing & Treating Chronic Neck Pain
At the Kaplan Center, we’ll look at multiple areas of health to determine the root cause of your pain and all the factors that may be exacerbating your symptoms. Neck problems are best treated by a multidisciplinary team and comprehensive treatment is key to long-lasting results. Depending on your evaluation and test results, recommended treatments may include:
Osteopathic manipulation – Manual therapies are often used for treating chronic neck pain. Craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, myofascial release and strain/counterstrain are just a few of the techniques that we can use to rebalance and realign musculoskeletal, connective, visceral, and other body tissues to ensure optimal body function.
Physical therapy – Chronic neck pain can often be successfully treated with physical therapy. Our physical therapists can evaluate and treat your condition with strengthening and stretching exercises, as appropriate.
Acupuncture is thought to work by blocking pain messages to the brain with competing stimuli through the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers) and the secretion of neurotransmitters, which affect one’s perception of pain.
Hormone replacement – When hormonal changes are the cause of your pain, hormone replacement therapy can help improve symptoms for both men and women.
Stress reduction – Mind body therapies can help lower stress.
Nutrition & supplementation – Positive dietary changes and supplementation will help correct deficiencies and can improve your pain symptoms and overall wellbeing.
Regenerative medicine therapies, including prolotherapy and platelet-rich plasma have been very successful in treating chronic neck pain related to texting and poor posture.
The treatments above can help relieve your immediate pain, promote long-term symptom relief, and help prevent future episodes of neck pain. In our experience, a combination of treatment strategies works best.
Don’t ignore the message, let us help you! Please give us a call today to make an appointment – 703-532-4892. Ext 2.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
The connection between nutrition and your physical health is unequivocal. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity and is also linked to inflammation and other chronic diseases such as diabetes; a high intake of unhealthy trans-fats increases your risk of future cardiac events; deficiencies in essential vitamins can accelerate cellular degeneration, thereby heightening your susceptibility to cancers and other serious illnesses. While these connections may appear simplified, their validity is well-supported by scientific evidence.
Yet despite the growing body of research illustrating the connection between a nutritious diet and enhanced mood and cognitive function, your dietary habits are often disregarded as a factor contributing to your emotional distress.
Research is increasingly confirming that inflammation of the central nervous system is a key factor in many chronic conditions, including mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and more severe disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder. Eating foods that are high in sugar and saturated fats can elevate inflammatory markers in your body and impact mental health by exacerbating anxiety, depression, and mood fluctuations. Dietary changes aimed at reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as enhancing the gut microbiome — crucial for nervous system development and function — can substantially enhance your mental well-being.
If you would like to discuss strategies on how to improve your nutritional intake to optimize your mental and overall health, please give us a call today at 703-532-5892. We use a functional medicine approach to treatment; our goal is to treat the “whole you” so that all areas of your health are improved.
In the meantime, as the old saying goes, “you are what you eat,” so with your emotional wellbeing in mind, here are some dietary tips on how you can improve your mood and mental health.
1. Incorporate more foods rich in B-vitamins (B12, B6, Folate). B-vitamins are involved in a number of important processes in the brain: they support cellular energy production, proper functioning of the nervous system, red blood cell formation, DNA formation, and the regulation of hormones. Studies show that deficiencies in certain B vitamins can result in an increased risk of depression.
Foods rich in B vitamins include beans, lentils, raw spinach, asparagus, romaine lettuce, broccoli, avocado, fish, shellfish & eggs.
2. Talk to us about supplements. Even if you think you have a relatively healthy diet, supplements can provide additional support to your immune system and lower your risk of developing a host of inflammatory conditions, including depression.
Vitamin D (serotonin synthesis), vitamin C, magnesium (stress support), vitamin E (mood regulation), CoQ10, glutathione, and Omega-3 are additional examples of supplements with clinical applications in depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders.
3. Eat foods that provide gut support. One of the many neurotransmitters used by the brain is serotonin. Among its many functions, serotonin is involved in regulating mood. We now know that as much as 95% of serotonin is produced in the intestines so maintaining the integrity of your gut microbiome with a proper balance of good and bad bacteria will help keep the production of serotonin in balance as well.
Regularly eating foods like fermented vegetables, sauerkraut, miso, and bone broth will keep your gut microbiome stocked with good bacteria.
4. Eat high protein foods at every meal to support neurotransmitter production. Your body produces neurotransmitters by utilizing nutrients in the food you eat, primarily amino acids. For example, serotonin is a byproduct of the amino acid tryptophan; noradrenaline is made from the amino acid tyrosine, which is also converted to dopamine. Serotonin, noradrenaline (aka norepinephrine) and dopamine belong to a group of neurotransmitters called monoamines that play a major role in mood & cognitive function.
High protein foods like raw nuts, cold water fish, beans, and eggs, consumed on a regular basis, will ensure that your body is getting enough of the building blocks it needs to produce these important chemical messengers that will keep your mood stabilized.
5. When snacking, always balance carbs with fats and protein. Keeping your carbohydrate and protein intake in balance will help stabilize mood and mental clarity and while avoiding the peaks and valleys of blood sugar levels that can also lead to other serious conditions like insulin resistance and pre-diabetes.
What does a complete protein and carb combination look like? Try combinations like: hummus with celery, bell peppers and/or carrots; apple, pear, or banana with almond butter (or any nut butter); sunflower seeds and raisins.
6. Saffron and turmeric may support people with anxiety & depression. Foods with turmeric and saffron have for ages been eaten for medicinal support. A study published in Journal of Affective Disorders, reported that a treatment of curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) and saffron were effective at easing anxiety and depressive symptoms in people with major depressive disorder.
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in turmeric and saffron help calm inflammation. Add them to your foods for flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits.
While more severe mental health conditions may necessitate treatments such as psychotherapy and medication, especially if your emotional well-being poses a risk of harm to yourself or others, your diet remains as an effective healing resource. When complemented by other strategies that address inflammation, such as exercise, meditation, and stress-reduction techniques, the result can be a brighter and more positive perspective on your life.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
Elizabeth Lipski, Digestive Wellness: How to Strengthen the Immune System and Prevent Disease through Healthy Digestion, 3rd ed. (New York: McGraw-Hill, 2004)
Roth W, Zadeh K, Vekariya R, Ge Y, Mohamadzadeh M. Tryptophan Metabolism and Gut-Brain Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Mar 15;22(6):2973. doi: 10.3390/ijms22062973. PMID: 33804088; PMCID: PMC8000752.
If you or someone you know has overcome COVID-19, there may be an expectation that life will quickly return to normal. Yet, for millions globally, that recovery is marred by the onset of Long-COVID, a perplexing condition that shadows them long after the virus has subsided. This condition isn’t just a continuation of the initial illness; it’s a new, often more complex battle characterized by various symptoms that weave unpredictably through every aspect of daily life.
Long-COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), emerges as a series of physical and psychological challenges that can persist for months or even years. Imagine waking up every day not knowing which version of yourself you’ll confront—will it be a day marred by crippling fatigue, or will brain fog cloud your thoughts and hamper your simplest tasks? Perhaps breathlessness will tighten its grip during a short walk from your bed to the kitchen, or maybe today is when your heart races with unsettling palpitations that no amount of calming can ease.
These symptoms of Long-COVID, not only disrupt personal health and well-being but also affect relationships, professional ambitions, and the very essence of what it means to feel normal. In this article, we delve into the lives of those grappling with Long-COVID, exploring their daily challenges and the broader implications of a condition as varied as unpredictable. Through their stories, we seek to foster understanding and empathy, offering a glimpse into the enduring impact of a global pandemic that continues to redefine health landscapes and personal narratives alike.
Long-COVID, or Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a complex, multifaceted condition that continues to baffle the medical community. It occurs after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection and can persist for months or even years, with symptoms that can severely impact a person’s quality of life. Unlike the initial infection, which is usually confined to respiratory symptoms, Long-COVID has a broad spectrum of signs and symptoms affecting multiple organ systems.
The Scope of Symptoms
The symptoms of Long-COVID are diverse and often debilitating. They include, but are not limited to:
Fatigue: This is not just ordinary tiredness; it’s a profound, unrelenting exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest and can be exacerbated by even minimal activity.
Brain Fog: Many individuals report difficulties with concentration and memory, often described as feeling like their thoughts are “wading through molasses.
Breathlessness: Even minor physical exertion can leave someone gasping for air, a condition that can persist long after the lungs have supposedly healed.
Chest Pain and Heart Palpitations: These symptoms can be particularly alarming as they mimic those of heart attacks, often leading to repeated hospital visits.
Pain and Muscle Aches: Persistent pain, including joint pain and muscle aches, can be a daily challenge for those with Long-COVID.
Loss of Taste and Smell: For some, this common symptom of the acute phase continues, altering their ability to enjoy food and drinks.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms can include diarrhea, constipation, and stomach cramps, affecting nutritional status and overall health.
Psychological Implications: Anxiety and depression are frequent companions of Long-COVID, fueled by the chronic nature of the illness and the uncertainty surrounding it.
What We Know So Far
Research into Long-COVID is robust and diverse, addressing the varied manifestations of the condition across different patient populations. One leading theory suggests that the virus may cause a prolonged immune response, leading to widespread inflammation that affects multiple organ systems. Supporting this, Dr. Bruce Patterson’s research provides significant insights into the immunological aspects of Long-COVID. His studies have identified specific biomarkers that correlate with various Long-COVID symptoms, suggesting that certain immune cells may continue to drive inflammation well after the initial infection has resolved.
Another area of Dr. Patterson’s research focuses on the possibility that the virus may remain in some small reservoirs within the body, reactivating periodically and causing symptoms. This theory could explain the relapsing-remitting nature of Long-COVID, where symptoms flare up and subside, challenging the recovery process.
Epidemiologically, Long-COVID appears to affect around 10% to 30% of those who contract COVID-19, including those who had mild cases or were asymptomatic during the initial infection phase. The condition does not discriminate, affecting individuals young and old, healthy and those with pre-existing conditions. Dr. Patterson’s ongoing work aims to delineate further the risk factors and mechanisms underlying these disparities, providing a clearer picture of who is most at risk and why.
Dr. Patterson’s innovative approach involves using advanced diagnostic tools to better understand the “Long hauler” phenotype. His team uses sophisticated lab techniques to measure the levels of cytokines and other immune markers in patients diagnosed with Long-COVID. This research not only helps in understanding the pathophysiology of Long-COVID but also assists in developing targeted therapies that address the specific biological mechanisms at play.
This ongoing research is crucial as it continues to fill the gaps in our understanding of Long-COVID, paving the way for new treatments and interventions that are grounded in solid scientific evidence. The hope is that these efforts will lead to significant breakthroughs in the management and treatment of Long-COVID, offering relief and recovery to millions affected worldwide.
Diagnostic Challenges
Currently, no single test can diagnose Long-COVID, which complicates healthcare providers’ ability to understand and treat this condition. Diagnosis is primarily based on patient history and a process of exclusion, where other potential causes for the symptoms are ruled out.
As the scientific community’s understanding of Long-COVID evolves, it becomes clear that this is not merely a singular health issue but a spectrum of conditions with potentially profound implications for public health systems globally.
The Challenges of Working with Long-COVID
For many, the workplace becomes a battleground where daily victories hinge on health fluctuations and the understanding of colleagues and employers. Accommodations such as modified work hours, telecommuting options, and physical support can be crucial for maintaining employment and dignity.
Beyond the workplace, Long-COVID affects social interactions and personal relationships. Activities that were once routine can become exhausting or impossible, leading to social isolation and emotional strain. Support groups and online communities have become vital, providing spaces for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
Understanding Long-COVID is just the beginning. It’s crucial for everyone—employers, family members, healthcare providers—to learn how to support those affected. By raising awareness and advocating for better care and accommodations, we can improve the lives of those dealing with Long-COVID.
Medical and Supportive Care
Addressing Long-COVID requires a multifaceted approach due to its complex and varied symptoms. The Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine has been at the forefront of treating Long-COVID by employing a personalized and integrative strategy that reflects the center’s deep understanding of chronic illness management. This approach is designed not only to alleviate the wide range of Long-COVID symptoms but also to enhance the overall well-being of each patient.
Comprehensive Treatment Modalities
At the Kaplan Center, treatment plans for Long-COVID are tailored to each patient’s individual needs. Recognizing that Long-COVID can affect virtually any system in the body, the center utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities:
Prescription Medications: These are used to address specific symptoms such as severe inflammation, pain, and neurological issues. The selection of medication is carefully adjusted based on the patient’s medical history and ongoing responses to treatment.
Nutritional Supplements: Understanding that nutrition plays a crucial role in recovery and health, the Kaplan Center provides customized dietary advice and supplements. These are aimed at restoring nutrient balance, supporting immune function, and reducing inflammation, which are critical in managing Long-COVID.
Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique has proven effective in managing pain and stress-related symptoms commonly found in Long-COVID patients. It helps in enhancing circulatory health, reducing chronic pain, and improving sleep patterns.
IV Therapy: For patients experiencing severe depletion of nutrients or those who need a rapid improvement in their symptoms, IV therapy offers direct delivery of essential vitamins and minerals to the body.
Physical Therapy: Tailored exercise programs are developed to help patients regain their strength and stamina without exacerbating their symptoms, especially for those suffering from post-exertional malaise, a hallmark of Long-COVID.
Psychotherapy and Mental Health Support: Recognizing the psychological impact of Long-COVID, the center offers mental health support and counseling to help patients cope with the anxiety, depression, and emotional distress that often accompany prolonged illness.
Sleep Management Techniques: As disrupted sleep is a common complaint among Long-COVID sufferers, the center also focuses on strategies to improve sleep hygiene and quality, which are pivotal in the overall healing process.
Expertise in Chronic Illness Management
The Kaplan Center’s approach is deeply rooted in its decades-long expertise in managing chronic illnesses. The center’s team includes specialists across various fields who collaborate to address the unique aspects of Long-COVID. Cutting-edge diagnostic tests developed under the guidance of experts like Dr. Bruce Patterson help pinpoint specific biomarkers. This precision medicine approach ensures that treatments are not only targeted but also more effective in managing the condition.
Patient-Centered Care
Central to the Kaplan Center’s philosophy is a patient-centered approach, where treatments are adjusted based on continuous feedback and monitoring of the patient’s progress. This dynamic approach helps in accommodating the changing nature of Long-COVID symptoms, ensuring that each patient receives care that is adapted to their evolving needs.
By integrating these various modalities and expertise, the Kaplan Center strives to provide a comprehensive treatment framework that addresses the physical, mental, and emotional challenges posed by Long-COVID. The goal is not just symptom management but enabling patients to achieve and maintain their best possible health after experiencing COVID-19.
Are you or someone you know affected by Long-COVID? Sharing your story can inspire change and help others feel less alone. Join us in spreading awareness and pushing for better support by sharing this article and your experiences on social media.
Long-COVID Recovery Services
If you are experiencing symptoms beyond six weeks of being diagnosed with COVID-19, learn more about our Long-COVID Recovery Services to regain your strength, energy, and vitality. Click here for more information.
“Text Neck Syndrome” Is No Joke; Your Chronic Neck Pain is Trying to Get Your Attention
/in Conditions/by Kaplan CenterChronic neck pain has been a growing problem since the arrival of handheld technology. “Text Neck,” also called forward head posture, is a condition caused by the repetitive stress placed on the cervical spine from looking down. In addition to chronic neck pain, bending your neck for too long may also cause upper shoulder pain, headaches, muscle stiffness and postural changes. But neck pain can also be an important clue to the existence of underlying health issues.
Looking down for an extended period of time puts you at risk of overstretching the supporting muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the cervical spine. These elastic structures should recoil back to normal, but there are many reasons why the connective tissue in the neck doesn’t rebound, including:
Diagnosing & Treating Chronic Neck Pain
At the Kaplan Center, we’ll look at multiple areas of health to determine the root cause of your pain and all the factors that may be exacerbating your symptoms. Neck problems are best treated by a multidisciplinary team and comprehensive treatment is key to long-lasting results. Depending on your evaluation and test results, recommended treatments may include:
The treatments above can help relieve your immediate pain, promote long-term symptom relief, and help prevent future episodes of neck pain. In our experience, a combination of treatment strategies works best.
Don’t ignore the message, let us help you! Please give us a call today to make an appointment – 703-532-4892. Ext 2.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
Food and Mood – These Dietary Recommendations are Positively Uplifting!
/in Nutrition/by Kaplan CenterThe connection between nutrition and your physical health is unequivocal. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity and is also linked to inflammation and other chronic diseases such as diabetes; a high intake of unhealthy trans-fats increases your risk of future cardiac events; deficiencies in essential vitamins can accelerate cellular degeneration, thereby heightening your susceptibility to cancers and other serious illnesses. While these connections may appear simplified, their validity is well-supported by scientific evidence.
Yet despite the growing body of research illustrating the connection between a nutritious diet and enhanced mood and cognitive function, your dietary habits are often disregarded as a factor contributing to your emotional distress.
Research is increasingly confirming that inflammation of the central nervous system is a key factor in many chronic conditions, including mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and more severe disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder. Eating foods that are high in sugar and saturated fats can elevate inflammatory markers in your body and impact mental health by exacerbating anxiety, depression, and mood fluctuations. Dietary changes aimed at reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as enhancing the gut microbiome — crucial for nervous system development and function — can substantially enhance your mental well-being.
If you would like to discuss strategies on how to improve your nutritional intake to optimize your mental and overall health, please give us a call today at 703-532-5892. We use a functional medicine approach to treatment; our goal is to treat the “whole you” so that all areas of your health are improved.
In the meantime, as the old saying goes, “you are what you eat,” so with your emotional wellbeing in mind, here are some dietary tips on how you can improve your mood and mental health.
1. Incorporate more foods rich in B-vitamins (B12, B6, Folate). B-vitamins are involved in a number of important processes in the brain: they support cellular energy production, proper functioning of the nervous system, red blood cell formation, DNA formation, and the regulation of hormones. Studies show that deficiencies in certain B vitamins can result in an increased risk of depression.
Foods rich in B vitamins include beans, lentils, raw spinach, asparagus, romaine lettuce, broccoli, avocado, fish, shellfish & eggs.
2. Talk to us about supplements. Even if you think you have a relatively healthy diet, supplements can provide additional support to your immune system and lower your risk of developing a host of inflammatory conditions, including depression.
Vitamin D (serotonin synthesis), vitamin C, magnesium (stress support), vitamin E (mood regulation), CoQ10, glutathione, and Omega-3 are additional examples of supplements with clinical applications in depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders.
3. Eat foods that provide gut support. One of the many neurotransmitters used by the brain is serotonin. Among its many functions, serotonin is involved in regulating mood. We now know that as much as 95% of serotonin is produced in the intestines so maintaining the integrity of your gut microbiome with a proper balance of good and bad bacteria will help keep the production of serotonin in balance as well.
Regularly eating foods like fermented vegetables, sauerkraut, miso, and bone broth will keep your gut microbiome stocked with good bacteria.
4. Eat high protein foods at every meal to support neurotransmitter production. Your body produces neurotransmitters by utilizing nutrients in the food you eat, primarily amino acids. For example, serotonin is a byproduct of the amino acid tryptophan; noradrenaline is made from the amino acid tyrosine, which is also converted to dopamine. Serotonin, noradrenaline (aka norepinephrine) and dopamine belong to a group of neurotransmitters called monoamines that play a major role in mood & cognitive function.
High protein foods like raw nuts, cold water fish, beans, and eggs, consumed on a regular basis, will ensure that your body is getting enough of the building blocks it needs to produce these important chemical messengers that will keep your mood stabilized.
5. When snacking, always balance carbs with fats and protein. Keeping your carbohydrate and protein intake in balance will help stabilize mood and mental clarity and while avoiding the peaks and valleys of blood sugar levels that can also lead to other serious conditions like insulin resistance and pre-diabetes.
What does a complete protein and carb combination look like? Try combinations like: hummus with celery, bell peppers and/or carrots; apple, pear, or banana with almond butter (or any nut butter); sunflower seeds and raisins.
Read: Snack on This!
6. Saffron and turmeric may support people with anxiety & depression. Foods with turmeric and saffron have for ages been eaten for medicinal support. A study published in Journal of Affective Disorders, reported that a treatment of curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) and saffron were effective at easing anxiety and depressive symptoms in people with major depressive disorder.
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in turmeric and saffron help calm inflammation. Add them to your foods for flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits.
While more severe mental health conditions may necessitate treatments such as psychotherapy and medication, especially if your emotional well-being poses a risk of harm to yourself or others, your diet remains as an effective healing resource. When complemented by other strategies that address inflammation, such as exercise, meditation, and stress-reduction techniques, the result can be a brighter and more positive perspective on your life.
We are here for you, and we want to help.
Our goal is to return you to optimal health as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment please call: 703-532-4892 x2
References:
Gorbachev D, Markina E, Chigareva O, Gradinar A, Borisova N, Syunyakov T. Dietary Patterns as Modifiable Risk Factors for Depression: a Narrative Review. Psychiatr Danub. 2023 Oct;35(Suppl 2):423-431. PMID: 37800271.
Ma Q, Xing C, Long W, Wang HY, Liu Q, Wang RF. Impact of microbiota on central nervous system and neurological diseases: the gut-brain axis. J Neuroinflammation. 2019 Mar 1;16(1):53. doi: 10.1186/s12974-019-1434-3. PMID: 30823925; PMCID: PMC6397457.
Marx W, Moseley G, Berk M, Jacka F. Nutritional psychiatry: the present state of the evidence. Proc Nutr Soc. 2017 Nov;76(4):427-436. doi: 10.1017/S0029665117002026. Epub 2017 Sep 25. PMID: 28942748.
Petridou ET, Kousoulis AA, Michelakos T, Papathoma P, Dessypris N, Papadopoulos FC, Stefanadis C. Folate and B12 serum levels in association with depression in the aged: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Aging Ment Health. 2016 Sep;20(9):965-73. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2015.1049115. Epub 2015 Jun 8. PMID: 26055921.
Elizabeth Lipski, Digestive Wellness: How to Strengthen the Immune System and Prevent Disease through Healthy Digestion, 3rd ed. (New York: McGraw-Hill, 2004)
Roth W, Zadeh K, Vekariya R, Ge Y, Mohamadzadeh M. Tryptophan Metabolism and Gut-Brain Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Mar 15;22(6):2973. doi: 10.3390/ijms22062973. PMID: 33804088; PMCID: PMC8000752.
Lopresti AL, Drummond PD. Efficacy of curcumin, and a saffron/curcumin combination for the treatment of major depression: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Affect Disord. 2017 Jan 1;207:188-196. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2016.09.047. Epub 2016 Oct 1. PMID: 27723543.
Living in the Shadow of COVID-19: The Persistent Struggle with Long-COVID
/in COVID-19, Long Covid/by Kaplan CenterIf you or someone you know has overcome COVID-19, there may be an expectation that life will quickly return to normal. Yet, for millions globally, that recovery is marred by the onset of Long-COVID, a perplexing condition that shadows them long after the virus has subsided. This condition isn’t just a continuation of the initial illness; it’s a new, often more complex battle characterized by various symptoms that weave unpredictably through every aspect of daily life.
Long-COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), emerges as a series of physical and psychological challenges that can persist for months or even years. Imagine waking up every day not knowing which version of yourself you’ll confront—will it be a day marred by crippling fatigue, or will brain fog cloud your thoughts and hamper your simplest tasks? Perhaps breathlessness will tighten its grip during a short walk from your bed to the kitchen, or maybe today is when your heart races with unsettling palpitations that no amount of calming can ease.
These symptoms of Long-COVID, not only disrupt personal health and well-being but also affect relationships, professional ambitions, and the very essence of what it means to feel normal. In this article, we delve into the lives of those grappling with Long-COVID, exploring their daily challenges and the broader implications of a condition as varied as unpredictable. Through their stories, we seek to foster understanding and empathy, offering a glimpse into the enduring impact of a global pandemic that continues to redefine health landscapes and personal narratives alike.
Understanding Long-COVID
Long-COVID, or Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a complex, multifaceted condition that continues to baffle the medical community. It occurs after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection and can persist for months or even years, with symptoms that can severely impact a person’s quality of life. Unlike the initial infection, which is usually confined to respiratory symptoms, Long-COVID has a broad spectrum of signs and symptoms affecting multiple organ systems.
The Scope of Symptoms
The symptoms of Long-COVID are diverse and often debilitating. They include, but are not limited to:
What We Know So Far
Research into Long-COVID is robust and diverse, addressing the varied manifestations of the condition across different patient populations. One leading theory suggests that the virus may cause a prolonged immune response, leading to widespread inflammation that affects multiple organ systems. Supporting this, Dr. Bruce Patterson’s research provides significant insights into the immunological aspects of Long-COVID. His studies have identified specific biomarkers that correlate with various Long-COVID symptoms, suggesting that certain immune cells may continue to drive inflammation well after the initial infection has resolved.
Another area of Dr. Patterson’s research focuses on the possibility that the virus may remain in some small reservoirs within the body, reactivating periodically and causing symptoms. This theory could explain the relapsing-remitting nature of Long-COVID, where symptoms flare up and subside, challenging the recovery process.
Epidemiologically, Long-COVID appears to affect around 10% to 30% of those who contract COVID-19, including those who had mild cases or were asymptomatic during the initial infection phase. The condition does not discriminate, affecting individuals young and old, healthy and those with pre-existing conditions. Dr. Patterson’s ongoing work aims to delineate further the risk factors and mechanisms underlying these disparities, providing a clearer picture of who is most at risk and why.
Dr. Patterson’s innovative approach involves using advanced diagnostic tools to better understand the “Long hauler” phenotype. His team uses sophisticated lab techniques to measure the levels of cytokines and other immune markers in patients diagnosed with Long-COVID. This research not only helps in understanding the pathophysiology of Long-COVID but also assists in developing targeted therapies that address the specific biological mechanisms at play.
This ongoing research is crucial as it continues to fill the gaps in our understanding of Long-COVID, paving the way for new treatments and interventions that are grounded in solid scientific evidence. The hope is that these efforts will lead to significant breakthroughs in the management and treatment of Long-COVID, offering relief and recovery to millions affected worldwide.
Diagnostic Challenges
Currently, no single test can diagnose Long-COVID, which complicates healthcare providers’ ability to understand and treat this condition. Diagnosis is primarily based on patient history and a process of exclusion, where other potential causes for the symptoms are ruled out.
As the scientific community’s understanding of Long-COVID evolves, it becomes clear that this is not merely a singular health issue but a spectrum of conditions with potentially profound implications for public health systems globally.
The Challenges of Working with Long-COVID
For many, the workplace becomes a battleground where daily victories hinge on health fluctuations and the understanding of colleagues and employers. Accommodations such as modified work hours, telecommuting options, and physical support can be crucial for maintaining employment and dignity.
Beyond the workplace, Long-COVID affects social interactions and personal relationships. Activities that were once routine can become exhausting or impossible, leading to social isolation and emotional strain. Support groups and online communities have become vital, providing spaces for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
Understanding Long-COVID is just the beginning. It’s crucial for everyone—employers, family members, healthcare providers—to learn how to support those affected. By raising awareness and advocating for better care and accommodations, we can improve the lives of those dealing with Long-COVID.
Medical and Supportive Care
Addressing Long-COVID requires a multifaceted approach due to its complex and varied symptoms. The Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine has been at the forefront of treating Long-COVID by employing a personalized and integrative strategy that reflects the center’s deep understanding of chronic illness management. This approach is designed not only to alleviate the wide range of Long-COVID symptoms but also to enhance the overall well-being of each patient.
Comprehensive Treatment Modalities
At the Kaplan Center, treatment plans for Long-COVID are tailored to each patient’s individual needs. Recognizing that Long-COVID can affect virtually any system in the body, the center utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities:
Expertise in Chronic Illness Management
The Kaplan Center’s approach is deeply rooted in its decades-long expertise in managing chronic illnesses. The center’s team includes specialists across various fields who collaborate to address the unique aspects of Long-COVID. Cutting-edge diagnostic tests developed under the guidance of experts like Dr. Bruce Patterson help pinpoint specific biomarkers. This precision medicine approach ensures that treatments are not only targeted but also more effective in managing the condition.
Patient-Centered Care
Central to the Kaplan Center’s philosophy is a patient-centered approach, where treatments are adjusted based on continuous feedback and monitoring of the patient’s progress. This dynamic approach helps in accommodating the changing nature of Long-COVID symptoms, ensuring that each patient receives care that is adapted to their evolving needs.
By integrating these various modalities and expertise, the Kaplan Center strives to provide a comprehensive treatment framework that addresses the physical, mental, and emotional challenges posed by Long-COVID. The goal is not just symptom management but enabling patients to achieve and maintain their best possible health after experiencing COVID-19.
Are you or someone you know affected by Long-COVID? Sharing your story can inspire change and help others feel less alone. Join us in spreading awareness and pushing for better support by sharing this article and your experiences on social media.
Long-COVID Recovery Services
If you are experiencing symptoms beyond six weeks of being diagnosed with COVID-19, learn more about our Long-COVID Recovery Services to regain your strength, energy, and vitality. Click here for more information.
Special Report: Understanding Long-COVID Syndrome
In this Special Report, we cover:
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