Navigating Long COVID in Academia
Dr. Abigail Koppes, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at Northeastern University, shares her journey of navigating academia with Long Covid.
Long Covid Symptoms
Long COVID symptoms persist weeks or months after initial infection and can affect multiple organs. Common symptoms include over 200 symptoms which include fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive issues (“brain fog”), chest pain, and joint pain. Other possible effects are sleep disturbances, heart palpitations, and mental health issues. The severity and duration of symptoms vary widely among individuals.
Long Haulers' Personal Stories
Symptom Relief | Management
Muscle aches
Muscles & Bones | Musculoskeletal
**Muscle Aches in Long COVID
Muscle aches, a common symptom, often involve generalized or localized pain, weakness, and fatigue. Those at higher risk include older adults, females, individuals with severe acute symptoms, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Management involves a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, pain management, and regular medical follow-up
Allergies
Long Covid Symptoms
Mast-Cell-Activation
**Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) in Long COVID
Mast cell activation, a key component of the immune system, has been increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to the symptomatology of Long COVID. Mast cells play a crucial role in the body’s defense against pathogens and in regulating allergic responses and can manifest as persistent fatigue, brain fog, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, skin rashes, joint
Long Covid Symptoms
Skin | Dermatological
*Pale Skin in Long Covid
Paleness has been identified as a symptom of Long COVID, often linked to underlying health issues resulting from the virus's long-term effects. Key factors contributing to paleness include anemia, reduced circulation, nutrient deficiencies, chronic fatigue, and autoimmune reactions. Addressing these factors can help manage and alleviate the symptom.
Long Covid Symptoms
**Prevention
Difficulty Breathing in Long Covid. Individuals experiencing this symptom may feel short of breath or struggle with respiratory discomfort even when standard oxygen measurements appear within the normal range.
Brain Fog | Cognitive functioning
Latest Research | Long Covid
Neurological Effects of Long Covid
Long Covid linked to Lasting Cognitive Issues
A recent study published in Brain reveals that individuals suffering from long-term COVID-19 may experience significant cognitive issues for over a year. Conducted during the first wave of the pandemic, the research compared patients with ongoing symptoms to those who had fully recovered. Read More...
Hair Loss
Long Covid Symptoms
**Hair Loss in Long Covid
Hair loss due to Long COVID, often manifesting as telogen effluvium, can be distressing but is typically temporary. Strategies such as maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, managing stress, and using gentle hair care practices can significantly aid in recovery and promote hair regrowth.
Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Issues
Nervous System | Neurological
Sensorimotor Symptoms
The 10 Most Common Causes of Dizziness
Dizziness symptoms include a sensation of spinning or lightheadedness, imbalance, and unsteadiness. Individuals may experience vertigo, faintness, blurred vision, or nausea. It can be caused by issues in the inner ear, dehydration, low blood pressure, or medication side effects, and may affect daily activities and mobility.
Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Issues
Head, Eyes, Ears, Nose, Throat | HEENT
Hearing
Kids | Pediatrics
Hearing and Balance
Sound waves vibrate through the ear, converting to electrical signals in the cochlea, sent to the brain. Balance is maintained by the inner ear's semicircular canals and the vestibular nerve. Read more...
Brain Fog
Dysautonomia
Long Covid Symptoms
Sensorimotor Symptoms
Stomach | Gastrointestinal
Dysautonomia
The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature control. Dysautonomia disrupts these vital functions, leading to a range of debilitating symptoms.