Over the last few years, the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, has spread globally, affecting millions with varying degrees of severity. While many recover fully from the virus, others suffer from prolonged symptoms that can persist for months or even years, known as long COVID.
Recent research shows that HBOT treatment for long COVID offers promising relief for persistent symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and shortness of breath.
Currently, it’s estimated that around 50 million people are dealing with long COVID, experiencing a significant deterioration in their quality of life. This figure continues to grow.
Patients with long COVID may face a range of ongoing symptoms, such as fatigue, memory problems, brain fog, anxiety, disrupted sleep, altered taste and smell, muscle pain, breathlessness, and gastrointestinal issues. These symptoms can severely affect daily functioning.
Emerging research highlights the potential benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for those suffering from long COVID, often referred to as “long haulers.” This post explores the effects of long COVID and what the latest studies suggest.
What is Long COVID?
At the outset of the pandemic, initial research indicated that the majority of those infected with COVID-19 would suffer a brief illness and recover within a few weeks. However, a minority of patients have reported experiencing symptoms for months or even years after their initial illness.
A study from 2021 revealed that one in seven patients who were hospitalized and then discharged continued to exhibit symptoms eight weeks later. More recent findings from a study in February 2024 suggest that Long COVID may stem from a brain injury, which could account for persistent symptoms like brain fog and memory loss.
Symptoms of Long COVID include:
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Joint and muscle pain
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Headaches
Individuals suffering from Long COVID, often referred to as “long haulers,” commonly experience severe fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, depression, and other symptoms that hinder their ability to resume normal activities
Some also suffer from headaches, chest pain, and in severe cases, complications like heart inflammation and strokes. The varied nature of these symptoms can make Long COVID challenging to diagnose. If you experience multiple symptoms that persist for several weeks, it is important to seek medical attention.
As long COVID continues to impact millions globally, many are turning to innovative solutions like HBOT treatment for long COVID for recovery.
The Role of Hyperbaric Oxygen in Treating Long COVID
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has been identified as a potential treatment for Long COVID. This therapy involves inhaling 100% oxygen in a pressurized environment. The process of HBOT enhances the oxygen concentration in the bloodstream and tissues. It is achieved due to the increased pressure and oxygen levels.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy & Inflammation
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) mitigates inflammation through several mechanisms. It raises the amount of dissolved oxygen in the plasma, which in turn promotes the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors.
Additionally, HBOT enhances the activation of genes that combat inflammation, helping to diminish the overall inflammatory response.
The anti-inflammatory benefits of HBOT have proven effective in treating a range of conditions, from autoimmune disorders to acute injuries. Considering the significant role inflammation plays in long COVID, HBOT could offer a valuable treatment avenue for those suffering as long haulers.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy & the Brain
Recent studies indicate that Long COVID may stem from a viral-induced brain injury. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is an effective treatment for brain injuries, regardless of their origin. It is beneficial not only for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and concussions but also for brain injuries potentially caused by COVID-19.
HBOT helps treat brain injuries by alleviating symptoms and speeding up recovery. It promotes the repair of damaged tissues and encourages angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels.
In treating concussions and traumatic brain injuries, HBOT supports recovery in several key ways:
- Enhances neurologic tissue regeneration and speeds up recovery
- Alleviates pain
- Facilitates healing
- Encourages the formation of new blood vessels
- Stimulates the mobilization of stem cells
- Potentially reduces cognitive impairments
The Immune Systems Role in Long COVID
The exact cause of long COVID remains unclear and may differ among individuals. The symptoms are believed to stem from various potential factors including autoimmune reactions, chronic inflammation, ongoing oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, endothelial dysfunction, thrombotic (clotting) diseases, tissue hypoxia (low oxygen levels), and direct viral invasion of the brain.
A recent study compared patients experiencing long COVID symptoms with those who had recovered from COVID without lingering symptoms. Those with long COVID showed higher levels of immune markers, which are typically linked to acute, severe illnesses. This suggests that long COVID symptoms could be due to a prolonged or flawed resolution of inflammation.
Treatment Options for Long COVID
While there is no definitive cure for long COVID, adopting a healthy lifestyle may help alleviate symptoms. Recommended practices include:
- Quitting smoking
- Engaging in regular exercise
- Eating a balanced diet
- Ensuring sufficient sleep
- Including aerobic activities in your routine
Research on HBOT for Long COVID
Recent research indicates that Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is an effective, natural approach to alleviating common Long COVID symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, pain, and shortness of breath.
Two studies highlight HBOT’s effectiveness in treating Long COVID:
A 2024 clinical review asserts that HBOT effectively targets the underlying pathophysiology of Long COVID, offering a safe and potentially beneficial treatment. The review explains HBOT’s mechanisms, such as promoting growth factor synthesis, reducing post-ischemic and inflammatory responses, decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α, increasing the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, and enhancing stem cell mobilization.
A larger study involving 79 patients demonstrated that after forty sessions of HBOT, participants showed notable improvements in cognitive function, fatigue, sleep quality, and pain management.
Studies highlight the effectiveness of HBOT treatment for long COVID, targeting inflammation and improving overall brain and body function.
Final Words
As we continue dealing with COVID-19, many people are struggling with long COVID, a condition that keeps causing problems long after the initial infection. This includes symptoms like tiredness, confusion, and difficulty breathing, which can seriously affect daily life.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is emerging as a hopeful treatment. This therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a special chamber to help reduce inflammation and improve healing.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to explore all your options. Consider contacting Lakeshore Hyperbaric Center to learn more about how HBOT might help you manage and potentially improve your condition.
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