Six years ago today, March 11 2020, COVID-19 was officially declared a global pandemic. If you’ve felt “off” or not quite like yourself since having COVID-19, you’re not alone. Long COVID is often defined by otherwise medically unexplained symptoms that persist for weeks, months, or years after the initial infection. While many individuals recover fully, others continue to experience ongoing symptoms that can significantly impact daily function and quality of life. Dr. Shelby Garn explains:

Patients with Long COVID may report persistent fatigue, brain fog, headaches, shortness of breath, exercise intolerance, sleep disturbances, dysautonomia and ongoing inflammatory symptoms. Emerging research suggests that potential mechanisms may include immune dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, microvascular changes, autonomic nervous system imbalance, and in some cases persistent viral fragments such as spike protein (which is testable!) that persist in the body for longer than expected and may continue to stimulate inflammatory pathways. When this system becomes imbalanced, the body can shift into a more “fight-or-flight” dominant state. In this state, the brain and body become more reactive, which can make people feel more sensitive to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors.

A helpful way to think about Long COVID is like a smoke alarm that became overly sensitive after a fire. Even though the fire is out, the house’s alarm system is still on high alert. Now it goes off at the smallest trigger — triggers such as what were once manageable allergies, another viral infection/the common cold or even just temperature changes. The system meant to protect the house has become overly reactive. After the initial infection, the immune system and nervous system can remain in a heightened state of alert.

From a naturopathic perspective, treatment focuses on addressing the underlying drivers contributing to symptoms and supporting the body’s recovery. This may include reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting mitochondrial function and cellular energy production, regulating the nervous system, improving circulation and microvascular health, and supporting detoxification pathways to help clear inflammatory byproducts. Long COVID is complex and still being actively researched, but what’s clear is that many people are continuing to struggle with real, ongoing symptoms. With the right support, investigation, and a comprehensive approach to healing, recovery is possible.