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syndrome is a complex condition that occurs after the body fights off any viral infection such as the common cold , flu , pneumonia , Epstein-Barr virus , herpes and HIV .
According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ), postviral syndrome can cause multi-organ effects or autoimmune conditions that involve many body systems , including the heart , lung , kidney , skin and brain . This may make those who have had COVID-19 more likely to develop new health concerns such as diabetes , heart conditions , blood clots , or neurological issues . Therefore , it ’ s crucial that those who have symptoms of Long COVID seek treatment .
Since COVID-19 is a virus , NUHS clinicians treat Long COVID similarly to how they might treat post-viral syndrome . Overall treatment focuses on reducing inflammation , supporting the immune system , balancing the nervous system and supporting the body ’ s stress response . This can be through a number of modalities and recommendations such as proper nutrition , increased sleep , exercising or receiving a massage .
RESTORING NUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES
Long COVID is associated with some specific nutrient deficiencies . This can vary among individual patients . Clinicians will usually provide a personalized plan that will help restore these deficient nutrient levels .
Depending on the plan , the treatment may come in the form of dietary recommendations or nutraceuticals . Unlike supplements , nutraceuticals are made up of whole foods / ingredients . This may include Omega 3 fatty acids , vitamin D , probiotics and CBD oil .
LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY FOR LOSS OF TASTE AND SMELL
Loss of taste and smell are commonly reported among those with COVID-19 . In fact , these are two of the COVID symptoms that many find to be the most challenging . Even after recovering from COVID-19 patients can continue to experience these issues .
At the Whole Health Center , clinicians have found that utilizing low-level laser therapy ( cold laser ) can improve a loss or impairment taste and smell . This type of therapy uses photons at a non-thermal irradiance to alter biological activity through the use of lasers , filtered lamps and LEDs .
According to researchers , low-level laser therapy can help stimulate healing , reduce inflammation and increase skin rejuvenation . The therapy also has the added benefit of causing few adverse reactions or side effects .
HYDROTHERAPY
Hydrotherapy can also be effective for treating Long COVID . Since the NUHS Whole Health Center opened a hydrotherapy suite in 2017 , clinicians and interns have been utilizing the therapeutic benefits of water to treat several types of ailments and boost various body systems and functions .
There are several forms of hydrotherapy . Depending on the patient ’ s health history and specific symptoms , clinicians may recommend :
• Constitutional Treatments : A onehour series of alternating hot and cold compresses to the abdomen and thorax to support digestion and elimination , relieve stress and boost immunity .
• Far infrared ( FAR ) saunas : The use of infrared heat , which penetrates the body more deeply than warmed air . This type of treatment has a variety health benefits . It can help detoxify heavy metals , promote weight loss , improve sleep , reduce chronic pain and reduce systolic hypertension .
WINTER 2023 / ALUMNEWS 17