Editor’s note: The groundbreaking Season 8 of the podcast series, Chasing Life with Dr. Sanjay Gupta, unveils a comprehensive analysis of the human brain in various states. Each enthralling episode delves into different states of the brain, from the distracted and frightened brain to the nourished brain, offering an intimate look at the inner workings of our minds and how it impacts our physical well-being. (CNN) — Symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, heart palpitations, post-exertional malaise, and dizziness are closely associated with long Covid in adults. These symptoms, as part of the National Institute of Health’s RECOVER initiative, are identified as indicators of long Covid. The initiative includes twelve symptoms that are used to classify someone as having long Covid, including gastrointestinal distress, chronic cough, thirst, chest pain, abnormal movement, changes in sexual desire or capacity, and a change or loss of taste and smell. If an individual experiences a certain number of these symptoms, they are likely one of the estimated 23 million Americans who have or had long Covid. Since the onset of the pandemic, it has become evident that some individuals, after being infected with the coronavirus, continue to endure debilitating symptoms for an extended period. While researchers have made significant progress in understanding long Covid, numerous questions regarding prevention and treatment still persist. In light of the staggering statistics, it has become increasingly clear that long Covid is a prevalent issue and as such, requires immediate attention. These long-term effects can especially take a mental and emotional toll on long Covid patients. Renowned neuroscientist, David Putrino, emphasizes the disconcerting symptoms, such as brain fog and post-exertional malaise, experienced by long Covid patients. Studies have revealed alarming changes in brain size and cognitive function in individuals who have contracted Covid, with or without experiencing long Covid. Moreover, post-exertional malaise has been a common complaint among long Covid patients. The wide-ranging symptoms are linked to potential underlying factors, including microclots, persistent viral particles, and inflammation of the vagus nerve. Despite being a formidable challenge, Putrino shares five vital tips to help cope with long Covid: rest and pace yourself, be aware of your limits, understand dysautonomia, manage mast cell activation syndrome, and practice breathwork. This guidance is essential for patients and their caregivers when navigating through the complexities of long Covid. For an in-depth discussion on these tips and more, tune in to the groundbreaking episode here.
5 helpful tips for managing the challenges of Long Covid
