LonG COVID & Dysautonomia

What is Long COVID?

Long COVID refers to a range of symptoms that persist for weeks or months after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection has resolved. These lingering effects can impact various systems in the body, leading to a significant decline in quality of life. Among the most common and debilitating complications of Long COVID is dysautonomia, a dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system.

What is Dysautonomia?

Dysautonomia involves a disruption in the autonomic nervous system, which regulates essential functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and body temperature. After a COVID-19 infection, individuals may develop dysautonomia symptoms, including Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and orthostatic intolerance.

Symptoms of Long COVID & Dysautonomia

Patients with Long COVID and dysautonomia may experience:

  • Chronic Fatigue

  • Brain Fog

  • Heart Palpitations and Tachycardia

  • Dizziness or Lightheadedness Especially when standing

  • Shortness of Breath

  • Gastrointestinal Issues

  • Temperature Dysregulation

  • Anxiety or Mood Changes

What is POTS?

Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a specific type of dysautonomia often seen in individuals recovering from COVID-19. POTS is characterized by an excessive increase in heart rate when transitioning from seated or lying to standing, accompanied by symptoms such as:

  • Dizziness, Lightheadedness, or Fainting

  • Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia)

  • Chronic Fatigue

  • Exercise Intolerance

  • Brain Fog and Difficulty Concentrating

  • Nausea and Gastrointestinal Problems

  • Poor Temperature Regulation (Cold Hands and Feet)

POTS occurs when the autonomic nervous system fails to regulate blood flow and pressure effectively, leading to an exaggerated cardiovascular response. While the exact mechanisms linking POTS to COVID-19 are still being studied, inflammation, nerve damage, and immune system dysfunction are thought to play key roles.

How COVId-19 Leads to Dysautonomia

COVID-19 can cause inflammation and damage to the nervous system, disrupting the communication pathways between the brain and body. This disruption often affects the autonomic nervous system, leading to difficulties in maintaining balance in everyday bodily functions.

Clinic with white desk and computer on top as well as a stool and a white cabinet

Diagnosing Long COVID & Dysautonomia

At Clarity Brain and Body Clinic, we use a comprehensive approach to evaluate your symptoms and identify the underlying causes of your post-COVID challenges.

Diagnostic methods may include:

  • Autonomic Nervous System Testing: To assess heart rate, blood pressure regulation, and response to positional changes.

  • Cognitive Testing: To assess memory, reaction time, and processing speed.

  • Oculomotor Assessment: To assess all 6 different types of eye movements.

  • Gait Assessment: Evaluate walking patterns to identify neurological imbalances affecting movement and stability.

  • Balance and Coordination Testing: Analyze your body's ability to maintain equilibrium and perform coordinated actions.

  • Vestibular Testing: Assess inner ear function and its connection to balance and spatial orientation.

Functional Neurology’s Role IN Recovery

Functional neurology offers a personalized, non-invasive approach to support recovery from Long COVID and dysautonomia. By targeting the underlying dysfunctions in the nervous system, our treatments aim to restore balance and improve the functioning of your autonomic nervous system.

Treatment Options at Clarity Brain & Body

We provide a variety of evidence-based therapies tailored to your specific needs, including:

  • Autonomic Nervous System Rehabilitation

  • Vagus Nerve Stimulation

  • Cognitive Training

  • Stress and Fatigue Management

  • Balance and Gait Training

  • Vestibular Therapy

  • Oculomotor Rehabilitation

Why Choose Clarity Brain & Body Clinic?

Dr. Timko is committed to providing compassionate care backed by the latest research in functional neurology. We understand the unique challenges of Long COVID and dysautonomia and are here to help you regain control of your health.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you are struggling with lingering symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, you don’t have to struggle alone. At Clarity Brain and Body Clinic, we’re dedicated to helping you find relief and rebuild your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward recovery.