How To Deal With Post-Covid Fatigue

Table of Content

• Why Post-Covid fatigue?

• Symptoms of Post-Covid fatigue

• Ways to deal with post-covid fatigue

• When to See a Doctor

• Take-Home Points

• FAQ on How To Deal With Post-Covid Fatigue

Introduction

A decline in physical and/or mental performance due to modifications in central, psychological, and/or peripheral components as a result of COVID-19 is known as post-COVID-19 fatigue.

Post-COVID fatigue is not something that just affects hospitalized COVID patients but also impacts the one who suffers from mild forms of the illness and recuperates at home. 

In this blog, we will explore ways to deal with post-COVID fatigue and improve your overall well-being.

Why Post-Covid fatigue?

The Pathogenesis of Post Covid fatigue is not well understood yet. This could be because there is no single causative factor. Changes in levels of the neurotransmitter, inflammation, psychiatric disorders, psychosocial burden, and  cognitive dysfunction are potential contributors to fatigue

The trigger for post-covid fatigue looks like a reaction to the virus itself. 

You don't feel at all refreshed when you wake up from sleep, and even very light mental or physical exertion can make you feel more exhausted.

Immune system response: The body's immune system produces a range of chemicals and hormones to fight off an infection. This response can cause inflammation and damage to tissues, which can lead to fatigue and other symptoms.

Symptoms of Post-Covid fatigue

People with Post-COVID Conditions can have a wide range of symptoms that can last weeks, months, or even years after infection. Sometimes the symptoms can even go away or come back again.

People who experience Post-COVID Conditions most commonly have: 

• Tiredness 

• Physical or mental effort makes symptoms even worse (also known as “post-exertional malaise”)

• Fever

• Difficulty in thinking as well as concentrating (referred to as “brain fog”)

• Headache

• Sleep problems

• Dizziness when you stand up (lightheadedness)

• Pins-and-needles feelings

• Change in smell or taste

• Depression or anxiety

• Joint or muscle pain

Ways to deal with post-covid fatigue

Although there is no cure for severe long COVID fatigue, steps to help manage symptoms and prevent extreme episodes of fatigue.

• Pace yourself: It's important to listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. Pushing yourself too hard can worsen your fatigue and delay your recovery.

• Get adequate sleep: One of the most important is getting enough sleep - a crucial factor for both physical healing and overall well-being. To help regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle, try to establish a consistent sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

• Nutrition: It is important to provide your body with essential nutrients to recover from COVID-19, the more adequate your diet will be, the faster will recover from fatigue. 

  • One can eat Foods like chicken, fish, and tofu

  • Whole grains like brown rice and quinoa are rich in fibre and complex carbohydrates

  • fruits and vegetables

  • Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds

  • Fermented foods like yogurt

• Stay connected with family and friends: Social support can help reduce stress and improve mood, which can contribute to overall energy levels.

• Seek professional help: If fatigue persists and affects your daily activities, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

• Manage your medications: If you are taking medication for COVID-19 or other conditions, make sure you follow your doctor's instructions and report any side effects.

• Manage your mental health: Mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety can contribute to fatigue. Seek professional help if needed.

• Avoid alcohol and drugs: These substances can worsen fatigue and interact with medications, which can further impact your recovery.

• Limit screen time: Too much screen time can cause eye strain, headaches, and fatigue. Take frequent breaks and use blue light filters if possible.

• Take care of your eyes: Proper lighting and positioning of your screen can reduce eye strain and fatigue.

• Use assistive devices: If you have difficulty with mobility or energy, consider using assistive devices such as a cane, walker, or scooter to conserve your energy.

• Practice good posture: Poor posture can cause muscle tension and fatigue. Use ergonomic furniture and take frequent breaks to stretch and move around.

• Be patient and kind to yourself: Recovery from COVID-19 can take time. Be patient and kind to yourself as you work towards regaining your strength and energy.

When to See a Doctor

If you've recently recovered from COVID-19 and are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to take them seriously. 

While some degree of fatigue and weakness is normal during recovery, ongoing or severe symptoms could be a sign of a more serious problem. 

If you're experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention right away as these could be signs of a more serious respiratory issue.

Take-Home Points

• A decline in physical and/or mental performance due to modifications in central, psychological, and/or peripheral components as a result of COVID-19 is known as post-COVID-19 fatigue

• The Pathogenesis of Post Covid fatigue is not clear but can be due to many causative factors.

• Symptoms of Post-Covid fatigue are tiredness, brain fog, sleepiness, fever, muscle pain etc.

• Pushing yourself too hard can worsen your fatigue and delay your recovery.

• It is important to provide your body with essential nutrients to recover from COVID-19.

• Poor posture can cause muscle tension and fatigue.

• If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of Post covid fatigue, it is important to consult a Physician.