Long Covid, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a condition that affects some people who have recovered from COVID-19, the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Even though most people with COVID-19 recover within a few weeks, some individuals may continue to experience symptoms for several months or even longer after the initial infection.

The symptoms of Long Covid can vary widely, and can affect different parts of the body. Some of the most common symptoms reported by people with Long Covid include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, brain fog, headaches, joint pain, muscle weakness, and difficulty sleeping. Other symptoms that have been reported include dizziness, tinnitus, loss of taste and smell, and digestive issues.

It is still not fully understood why some people develop Long Covid, while others do not. Some studies have suggested that people who had more severe cases of COVID-19 are more likely to experience Long Covid. Other risk factors for Long Covid may include age, gender, and pre-existing medical conditions.

The impact of Long Covid on individuals can be significant, and can have a major impact on their quality of life. Many people with Long Covid report that their symptoms have prevented them from returning to work or carrying out everyday activities, such as grocery shopping or exercising. In addition, the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the body are not yet fully understood, which means that the long-term consequences of Long Covid are also unknown.

There is currently no specific Western medical treatment for Long Covid, and management of the condition typically involves addressing individual symptoms. Supportive care, such as rest, hydration, and pain relief, can be helpful in managing symptoms. Some people with Long Covid may also benefit from rehabilitation or physical therapy.

A Holistic Approach to Long Covid

From a holistic perspective, Long Covid is similar to other post-viral or post-infection syndromes, including Chronic Epstein-Barr Virus and Lyme Disease. A mistake people make in treating syndromes like Long Covid is to automatically assume that “detox” needs to be the first order of business. However, people who are weakened by an acute condition that has become chronic may be further weakened by aggressive detox strategies.

A comprehensive holistic approach to Long Covid might look like the following:

• Manage symptoms using herbal medicine
• Reduce or better manage stress that may be making the condition worse
• Strengthen the body and repair the tissues using nutrition, herbs, and lifestyle adjustments

Additionally, people with chronic illness may have a nervous system stuck in a perpetual state of fight or flight, so relaxation techniques, positive thinking, and mindful movement such as gentle yoga and/or qigong can potentially be very beneficial.

For help with Long Covid, contact one of our holistic practitioners.