When most people contract the COVID-19 virus, they may exhibit symptoms for up to two weeks or more. However, for others, the symptoms of COVID-19 can extend well into several months, causing a multitude of other health problems along the way. People with long COVID symptoms, otherwise known as “long-haulers,” might frequently experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, random headaches, fatigue, and even a sudden onslaught of cognitive (brain fog) or mental health issues. For those exploring long-haulers treatment, here’s what you should know:
What Is the Long-Haulers Syndrome?
Long-haulers syndrome can be diagnosed in an individual who continues to experience COVID symptoms for 28 days or more after recovering from the virus. It has several names, including:
- Long COVID
- Long-haul COVID
- Chronic COVID
- Post-acute COVID
While someone might think that people with pre-existing conditions (such as diabetes, heart conditions, or respiratory diseases) may be more at risk for developing long-haulers, there is no proven connection yet, as there is still more intensive research to be conducted in examining this novel condition. In fact, long-haulers can even happen to people without any underlying diseases or conditions.
What Causes Long-Haulers Syndrome?
The COVID-19 virus can attack an individual’s body in several ways, affecting their organs and brain, as well as their respiratory, nerve, and immune systems, among others. It is unclear what exactly causes extended COVID-19 symptoms in some people, but it is worth noting that it can happen to anyone.
Symptoms of Long COVID
If you suspect that you might have long COVID, here are some clear signs you may need long-haulers treatment:
- Complete loss of smell
- Changes in or reduced sense of smell or taste
- Frequent tiredness or fatigue
- Frequent migraines or random headaches
- Irregular heart palpitations
- Lingering chest pain
- Chronic coughing
- Difficulty concentrating or thinking
- Sleep issues
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Lightheadedness when you stand up
- Stomach issues
- Unexplained joint or muscle pain
- Sudden changes to your menstrual cycle
For individuals suffering from a loss of smell or taste in particular, Southwest Pain Management provides effective and fast-acting long-haulers treatment through the use of a stellate ganglion block (SGB) that is non-surgical and only minimally invasive.
SGB for Long-Haulers Treatment
Based on the latest findings, it is believed that the long COVID symptoms of taste or smell loss are due to a malfunction in the autonomic nervous system (ANS). This area can be characterized as a small cluster of nerves at the front of your spine on your neck. This nerve bundle communicates with the head and face, including your tongue. The good news is that there may be evidence to suggest that the loss of taste or smell may be due to a functional problem of this cluster of nerves rather than damage to your nose or tongue.
With a stellate ganglion block (SGB), a local anesthetic is injected into the aforementioned cluster of nerves to reset them so that they can now work correctly. The result may also include improved blood flow in the area that can eliminate other physiological and mental problems that you may be experiencing.
Get Long-Haulers Treatment With Dr. Groysman, MD
If you’re ready to explore SGB for long-haulers treatment, Dr. Groysman, MD, at Southwest Pain Management can provide you with the relief you deserve. Contact us now to schedule an appointment.