It is unfortunate that COVID-19 has become a part of our lives, but there are options available to help lower our risk of infection and improve our outcomes if we do get infected. One such option is functional medicine, which focuses on optimizing the body’s natural defenses to help prevent and fight off infections.
While the acute symptoms of COVID-19 are well-known, there are also potential long-term health problems that can arise due to the virus. Here are ten of the most likely potential long-term health problems due to COVID:
-Respiratory problems
-Cardiovascular issues
-Chronic fatigue
-Cognitive problems
-Depression and anxiety
-Blood clots
-Kidney damage
-Liver damage
-Neurological issues
-Autoimmune disorders
There are several important strategies that individuals can use to help prevent COVID besides vaccination or wearing a mask. Here are some of the most effective:
-Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently and avoiding touching your face.
-Get plenty of rest and practice stress reduction techniques to support your immunity.
-Stay physically active and maintain a healthy diet to support overall health and immune function.
– Not only taking, but optimizing your immune-supportive supplements, such as vitamin D and zinc, to improve your immune system.
Functional medicine physicians use a variety of medical treatments to help deal with long-term or long-haul COVID. Here are ten specific treatments that functional medicine physicians may use:
-Antioxidants, such as glutathione and vitamin C, to support immune function and reduce inflammation.
-Vagal nerve stimulation to reduce inflammation and support immune function.
-Peptides, such as thymosin alpha-1, to support immune function and reduce inflammation.
-IV therapies, such as Myers’ Cocktail, to support immune function and improve overall health.
-Nutritional supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics, to support immune function and improve overall health.
-Traditional Chinese Medicine, including herbal remedies and acupuncture, to support immune function and improve overall health.
-Hyperbaric oxygen therapy to support immune function and reduce inflammation.
-Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to support immune function and improve overall health.
-Exercise and physical therapy to improve cardiovascular and respiratory health.
-Cognitive behavioral therapy and other mental health treatments to address depression, anxiety, and other psychological effects of COVID-19.
In conclusion, while COVID-19 has become a part of our lives, there are options available to help lower our risk of infection and improve our outcomes if we do get infected. Functional medicine offers a range of treatments and strategies to help support immune function, reduce inflammation, and improve overall health. By staying informed and utilizing the latest research and techniques, individuals can empower themselves to stay healthy and reduce the long-term health effects of COVID-19.
