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Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a condition that affects individuals who have recovered from acute COVID-19 but continue to experience a range of persistent and often debilitating symptoms. These symptoms can include fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive difficulties, and more. As researchers seek effective treatments for this complex condition, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a promising approach to managing lingering symptoms. In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between Long COVID and HBOT and the potential benefits it offers to those dealing with this challenging condition.
Long COVID is characterised by a wide spectrum of symptoms that can affect various systems in the body. Common manifestations include:
- Fatigue and Muscle Weakness;
- Cognitive Dysfunction (often referred to as “brain fog”);
- Shortness of Breath;
- Chest Pain;
- Joint Pain;
- Headaches;
- Loss of Taste or Smell;
- Mood Disturbances (anxiety or depression);
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms;
- Skin Rashes.
These symptoms can persist for weeks or months after the initial COVID-19 infection has cleared. They can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and daily functioning.
HBOT is a treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber. By increasing the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream, HBOT aims to enhance the body’s natural healing processes. It has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including decompression sickness, non-healing wounds, and radiation injuries.
While research on the use of HBOT for Long COVID is still in its early stages, there are several reasons why this therapy is being explored as a potential treatment option:
- Oxygenation: HBOT provides the body with significantly higher levels of oxygen, which can aid in tissue repair and recovery. This may be particularly helpful for individuals with respiratory symptoms and persistent fatigue;
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: HBOT has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for those with Long COVID as inflammation is believed to play a role in the condition’s ongoing symptoms;
- Immune System Modulation: By modulating the immune system, HBOT may help reduce excessive immune responses that contribute to Long COVID symptoms;
- Enhanced Brain Function: HBOT can improve cerebral blood flow and oxygenation, potentially addressing cognitive dysfunction (brain fog) experienced by some Long COVID patients;
- Promoting Tissue Healing: HBOT may accelerate the healing of tissues affected by the virus, reducing symptoms like chest pain and joint discomfort.
Several clinical trials and studies are underway to investigate the efficacy of HBOT in treating Long COVID. These trials aim to determine whether HBOT can provide relief for individuals experiencing persistent symptoms. Preliminary findings suggest that some Long COVID patients have reported improvements in their symptoms after undergoing HBOT.
Long COVID is a complex and challenging condition that continues to affect many individuals even after their acute infection has resolved. While research is ongoing, hyperbaric oxygen therapy shows promise as a potential treatment option for managing the lingering symptoms associated with Long COVID. If you or someone you know is experiencing Long COVID symptoms, it’s essential to consult with healthcare professionals who can provide guidance and explore the most appropriate treatment options, which may include therapies like HBOT. As research continues to evolve, the hope is that effective treatments will emerge to improve the lives of those affected by this condition. Please CONTACT US to find out more about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at ACCA Longevity Clinic.
Until next time,
Team ACCA x