Managing and Treating Long COVID: A Comprehensive Guide

TLDRDr. Michael Brode shares his framework for treating long COVID, emphasizing the importance of managing energy, intentional rehabilitation, symptomatic management, and targeted therapies. While there is no specific test for long COVID, diagnosis is based on symptoms that persist after a COVID infection. Treatment focuses on individualized approaches, including physical and cognitive therapy, medication for symptom relief, and potential experimental therapies. Recovery is a gradual process, and most patients see improvement within the first year or two.

Key insights

💡There is no specific test for long COVID. Diagnosis is based on symptoms that persist after a COVID infection.

💪Managing energy is crucial in treating long COVID. Recognize your body's signals and avoid pushing through when you're running out of energy.

🏋️Intentional rehabilitation focuses on building on your strengths and accommodating deficits, including physical and cognitive therapy.

💊Symptomatic management involves using evidence-based treatments and medications to treat specific symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, migraines, and nerve pain.

⚗️Targeted therapies for long COVID are still experimental and vary widely. Potential categories include viral fragment eradication, reducing chronic inflammation, and improving blood flow and oxygen utilization.

Q&A

What is the first step in treating long COVID?

—The first step is managing energy and avoiding pushing through when you're running out of energy. Recognize your body's signals and prioritize rest and recharge.

Are there specific tests to diagnose long COVID?

—No, there is no specific test for long COVID. Diagnosis is based on symptoms that persist after a COVID infection, typically with the onset of symptoms starting 6-8 weeks after the infection.

What are some targeted therapies for long COVID?

—Targeted therapies for long COVID are still experimental and vary widely. Some potential categories include viral fragment eradication, reducing chronic inflammation, and improving blood flow and oxygen utilization.

Is complete recovery possible for long COVID?

—While complete recovery is possible, it varies for each individual. Research shows that about 60% of patients fully recover, with the majority seeing the bulk of their recovery within the first year or two years.

Can treatment for long COVID exacerbate symptoms?

—Treatment for long COVID can be trial and error, as individuals may respond differently to medications and therapies. It's important to work closely with a healthcare professional to find the right approach for your specific symptoms and needs.

Timestamped Summary

00:19Dr. Michael Brode is a general internist and Medical Director of the Post-COVID-19 program at UT Health Austin.

00:52There is no specific test for long COVID; diagnosis is based on symptoms that persist after a COVID infection.

03:23Managing energy is crucial in treating long COVID; recognize your body's signals and avoid pushing through when you're running out of energy.

09:12Intentional rehabilitation focuses on building on your strengths and accommodating deficits through physical, cognitive, and mental health therapies.

12:14Symptomatic management involves using evidence-based treatments and medications to alleviate specific long COVID symptoms like fatigue, insomnia, migraines, and nerve pain.