Long COVID is a condition that continues to afflict millions of people worldwide. It refers to a range of symptoms that persist even after the virus has been cleared from an individual’s body. These symptoms can include cardiac problems, brain fog, shortness of breath, and crippling pain. Unfortunately, many individuals with Long COVID report that their symptoms are often dismissed or belittled by their doctors, and they suffer for years before getting a diagnosis.
CDC Study Indicates Up to 20 Million American Adults Suffer from Long COVID
According to a June 2022 CDC study, up to 20 million American adults may be living with long COVID. This is equivalent to one out of every thirteen people over the age of 18 in the United States. The long-term sequelae after any single infection are quite small, but the combined effects of all infections in an entire population is likely substantial.
Many individuals with long COVID report that their doctors dismiss and belittle their symptoms, leaving them feeling unheard and unsupported. Programs like breathing tests every six weeks aid in the healing process and assist patients in regaining some sense of normalcy.
Long COVID Continues to Impact Many Americans’ Lives
Long COVID has affected millions of people globally, with individuals reporting a range of symptoms including fatigue, lung issues, and neurological problems like brain fog. Recent CDC data showed that long COVID has played a role in over 3,500 deaths in the United States from January 2020 through the end of June 2022.
Treva Taylor is one such individual who has been suffering from long COVID. She wants others who are suffering to know that it is “very real.” Taylor’s case is so severe she requires oxygen to move around and is being assessed for a potential lung transplant.
New Research Links Long COVID to the Brain
New research is shedding light on the possible connection between long COVID and the brain. Studies have found evidence of viral particles in the brains of people with long COVID. The nose may be a route through which the virus can reach the brain.
Dysautonomia, a condition that results in a loss of control over automatic bodily functions, may explain the wide variety of symptoms experienced by long COVID patients. IVIg, a cocktail of proteins and antibodies, may help treat nervous system inflammation in long COVID patients.
Some evidence suggests that COVID vaccines may reduce the risk of long COVID symptoms. For those suffering from Long COVID, finding people who believe them can be a big issue. Strong Haulers is a company developing an app to help people with chronic conditions track their symptoms and find triggers for their symptoms.
In conclusion, Long COVID remains a constant presence in the lives of many Americans. While researchers work to understand its causes and develop treatments, it is important to support those who are suffering from this condition and take steps to prevent its spread. It is also vital that we continue to listen to those who are struggling with Long COVID and provide them with the empathy and compassion they deserve.
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