The Lingering Effects of Covid-19

By Judy Gaman

Many people have recovered from Covid-19, but some are experiencing lingering symptoms long after they test negative. Mark Anderson, MD, a founding partner at Executive Medicine of Texas, has dedicated his career to helping others increase their chances for a longer and healthier life.

Dr. Anderson explains that many doctors are seeing patients experience after-effects from Covid-19, consistent with those of other infections.

“Much of what we’re seeing in these patients is similar to what we see after other infections, such as Lyme disease or CMV, ” he said. “Patients need to understand that while the acute infection may be gone, the body is in recovery phase. The healing process can be exhausting and often takes a great deal of physical and emotional energy.”

Here are a few after-effects that Dr. Anderson and his colleagues said they have been seeing:

Extreme Fatigue

This is not uncommon when the body is in a recovery state. Infections like Covid-19 are inflammatory by nature. Reducing inflammation and returning to a state of homeostasis is taxing on the system.

Lingering Shortness of Breath

By nature, this illness causes damage to the lining of the lungs. The good news is that the lungs have the capacity to heal themselves partially, if not completely. Some research out of China shows that early contractors are now showing signs of repair and recovery.

Brain Fog or Confusion

Part of this may be due to the inflammatory process. As the body heals, this should reduce or resolve. For those patients that were hospitalized or taken out of their normal environment and routines, the sooner they move back into a sense of normalcy, the easier it will be to think clearly again. Of course, moving back into routines too soon could also backfire as the body needs rest and recovery during the healing process.

Depression

This is often the result of the other symptoms. Nobody wants to be down for a day, let alone a month or more. A significant illness, such as this, is also a reminder of our own mortality. Many patients find themselves taking inventory of their own lives, accomplishments, and unrealized goals.

Dr. Anderson stated that patients recovering from Covid-19 should be aware of their risks going forward.

“Time will tell,” he said. “One thing I know for certain is that patients who’ve experienced a long-lasting inflammatory illness should always be followed more closely going forward. Inflammation is the root of many other illnesses like heart disease and even many types of cancer.”

Dr. Anderson and his colleagues at Executive Medicine of Texas are developing new protocols to boost the health of the post-Covid-19 patients.

Such programs are reported to focus on nutrition, strength building, hormone optimization and routine screenings for any evidence of early heart disease or other chronic illnesses.

With the number of cases on the rise, all people, not just those who have other risk factors, should take precautions. While we measure the numbers of total cases and deaths, there is no doubt that we will eventually be measuring the number of people with post-Covid-19 complications.

About the Author: Judy Gaman, MSPS, BSHS is an award winning speaker and author. She authored the book Age to Perfection: How to Thrive to 100, Happy Healthy, and Wise with Drs. Mark Anderson and Walter Gaman. To get your FREE copy of the Age to Perfection CLICK HERE. Her latest book, Love, Life, and Lucille (www.lovelifelucille.com) is about how Lucille Fleming, a centenarian (over 100), changed her life forever.

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The Editorial Team at Lake Oconee Health is made up of skilled health and wellness writers and experts, led by Daniel Casciato who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We aim to provide our readers with valuable insights and guidance to help them lead healthier and happier lives.