Long COVID Symptoms and Natural Remedies
While most people who contract Covid-19 recover quickly, for some the effects of the virus can last for much longer, or new symptoms can develop. This is called 'long COVID’.
The severity of your initial COVID infection does not influence the possibility of developing long COVID. Therefore, even if you had a mild or asymptomatic case, you might still experience persistent symptoms in the long term. Furthermore, the diverse range of symptoms makes it challenging for doctors to accurately diagnose the condition.
Long COVID symptoms adversely affect the day-to-day lives of millions of people around the world and can last for several weeks or months beyond the initial illness.
What are the most common symptoms of long COVID?
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Fatigue: Prolonged and severe tiredness that can significantly impact daily activities and functioning.
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Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless even with minimal exertion.
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Cognitive issues: Problems with memory, concentration, and "brain fog."
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Chest pain: Discomfort or pain in the chest, which can be different from the acute phase of COVID-19.
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Muscle and joint pain: Persistent or recurring pain in muscles and joints.
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Headaches: Frequent or severe headaches.
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Loss of smell or taste: Impaired or altered sense of smell and taste.
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Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.
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Palpitations: Irregular or pounding heartbeat.
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Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, diarrhoea, or other digestive issues.
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Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling faint or unsteady.
It's important to understand that Long COVID affects individuals differently, and the symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals may experience only a few of these symptoms, while others may experience a combination of them. The severity and duration of Long COVID symptoms can also vary, and research is ongoing to better understand this condition and identify effective treatments.
If you have been diagnosed or think you have long COVID but are struggling to find effective treatment you may want to try some natural treatments and remedies.
Using Lemongrass Essential Oil in a diffuser is a wonderful way to enjoy its refreshing and uplifting aroma throughout your home.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use Lemongrass Essential Oil in a diffuser:
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Choose the right diffuser: There are various types of diffusers available, such as ultrasonic diffusers, nebulising diffusers, and evaporative diffusers. For using lemongrass oil, an ultrasonic diffuser is commonly recommended as it uses water to disperse the oil into the air as a fine mist.
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Fill the diffuser with water: Depending on the diffuser's size, add an appropriate amount of water to the water reservoir. Usually, most diffusers have a fill line or indicator to guide you on the amount of water needed.
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Add lemongrass essential oil: Start with 3-5 drops for a small diffuser and increase the number of drops if you prefer a stronger aroma. Avoid adding too much oil, as it may overpower the scent and can be wasteful.
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Turn on the diffuser.
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Enjoy the aroma: As the diffuser operates, it will disperse the lemongrass essential oil into the air as a fine mist. The room will gradually fill with the refreshing and citrusy scent of lemongrass.
Relaxation is essential for maintaining overall well-being and reducing stress.
Here are five simple ways to relax at home:
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Deep Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing is an effective relaxation technique that can be done anywhere, including at home. Find a quiet and comfortable spot, sit or lie down, and focus on your breath. Take slow, deep breaths, filling your lungs completely, and then exhale slowly. This practice helps activate your body's relaxation response and reduces stress.
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Mindfulness Meditation: Mindfulness meditation involves being fully present in the moment without judgment. Find a peaceful space, sit or lie down comfortably, and concentrate on your breath or a specific focal point. When your mind wanders, gently bring your focus back to your breath or the focal point. Regular mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
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Listen to Soothing Music: Music has a powerful impact on our emotions and can help us relax. Create a playlist of calming and soothing music that you enjoy. Sit or lie down, close your eyes, and let the music wash over you, allowing your mind to unwind and your body to de-stress.
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Take a Warm Bath: A warm bath is a classic way to relax and unwind. Fill your bathtub with warm water and add some bath salts or essential oils (we recommend Lavender Essential Oil ) for an extra touch of relaxation. Soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes, and let the warm water soothe your muscles and calm your mind.
- Aromatherapy with Rose Geranium Cream: Rubbing Rose Geranium Cream on your hands and feet can have a calming effect due to the pleasant aroma and the act of massaging. The scent of rose geranium is believed to promote relaxation and ease anxiety. Take a moment to inhale the fragrance while gently massaging your hands, signalling to your body that it's time to unwind.
Remember, relaxation techniques may vary from person to person, so it's essential to find what works best for you. Incorporating these simple practices into your daily routine can help promote relaxation and improve your overall well-being.
5. Boost your immune system
Conclusion
Research into long COVID is ongoing, and as our understanding of the condition deepens, more effective approaches to managing and treating it may emerge in the future. In the meantime, individuals affected by long COVID can explore various natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments to improve their quality of life and support their journey towards recovery.