By Dr. Amy K. Davis, MD
COVID 19 and the problems that have arisen in the aftermath of even mild cases are confounding doctors across the country. Symptoms commonly include fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, poor endurance, anxiety and sleep disruption. Many other issues are being seen including joint and muscle pain, recurrent shingles, reactivation of mono, strokes, myocarditis, heart failure and more. In my entire career as an Internist, I have not seen issues like this in the aftermath of any other viral illness. The immune system seems to be severely stressed or weakened in a way that makes some individuals more prone to experiencing long term complications.
When the immune system is weak, reactivation of old viral infections previously controlled by the immune system may resurface and become symptomatic again. Shingles is a prime example of a virus that is “dormant” until the immune system is stressed in some manner and varicella zoster, commonly known as chickenpox, emerges on the surface of the skin. Weeks to months following COVID infections a variety of viruses appear to be resurfacing and creating significant symptoms for individuals. Mononucleosis and Hand Foot and Mouth Disease are other examples of common viruses that are reactivating.
Today it is more important than ever to have a healthy immune system. The good news is that there are effective natural options to enhance your immune system.
What can you do?
- Vitamins and minerals including Vitamin C, D, B-vitamins, and Zinc are well known to support the immune system.
- Herbs like Olive Leaf, Myrrh, Cat’s Claw, Elderberry
- Probiotics – A healthy immune system begins with a healthy gut
- Medicinal mushrooms like astragalus, reishi, cordyceps and maitake
- Phytonutrients and antioxidants boost the immune system. Eat a rainbow of fruits and veggies daily.
- Get plenty of Sleep
- Reduce Stress: Find time to breath, stretch, meditate, and laugh!
- Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables which are rich in vitamins, phytonutrients and fiber that support the immune system.
- Exercise regularly.
- If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
- Take steps to reduce your exposure to infectious agents. Wash your hands frequently and keep your hands away from your face. Wear a mask when in public places inside.
If you are experiencing COVID Long Hauler’s symptoms it is important to seek help. We are accepting new patients.
Tip for the New Year
Practice Mindfulness every day.
Ninety five percent of the mind is on autopilot filled with patterns and beliefs you are not aware of. These patterns create dysfunction and they negatively impact your health.
Practice staying in the present moment. Worrying about the future and regrets about the past, neither of which you can control, keeps you from enjoying today. Decide what you want this year and focus on that. Keep out of patterns that don’t serve you well e.g. survival reactive mode.
Start each day with time for you to reset your mind. Breathe, create positive feelings, imagine how you want your life to look and feel. Practice daily and you will transform your life!
Have a Healthy New Year!
Dr. Amy Davis M.D.
Crossing Back to Health
485 Wildwood Parkway Suite 2
Ballwin, MO 63011
Phone: 636 778-9158
For more information visit us at www.crossingbacktohealth.com