Following infection from Covid-19, some people experience lingering symptoms for weeks and sometimes months after. You might know this as Long Covid. Research into this condition is ongoing and, as yet, experts don’t know why people get Long Covid. It appears to affect each person in different ways. The most common symptoms include:
Fatigue
Headache
Poor memory/concentration (brain fog)
Loss of smell and taste
Cough
Shortness of breath
Joint pain
Chest pain
In some cases, sleep issues, anxiety and depression may be experienced along with symptoms affecting the organs, digestive system and skin. More help and information from the NHS on Long Covid can be found HERE.
Anyone, including children, may develop Long Covid but studies have shown an increased risk in older people, women and those who had 5 or more symptoms in the first week of becoming ill with Covid-19. Watch the video below from the Zoe Covid Study for further guidance on living with Long Covid.
10 Tips for Managing Long Covid Symptoms
Pace and plan activities to conserve your energy
Rest before and after an activity. Resting frequently and before you become tired.
Keep physically active. Don’t overestimate what you can do and build up length and frequency of exercise gradually.
Be kind to yourself. Some days will be better than others. Celebrate any positive steps and remember; there is always tomorrow if it doesn’t happen today.
Relax. This will help reduce anxious feelings and how you choose to relax is a very individual thing. Reflexology would be top of my list here (obviously!), as it can induce slower breathing and a sense of calm and well-being. You may choose mindfulness, meditation or visualisation techniques.
Keep to a daily routine.
Stay connected with friends and family as talking to others can help your mood.
Eat regular meals and limit alcohol consumption which could adversely affect mood.
Get a good night’s sleep. Keep to regular sleep and wake-up times, developing a bedtime ritual and reducing the room temperature can all help.
Save your energy. Sit down during activities such as ironing, showering or dressing. Do your supermarket shop online. Most importantly; ask for help!
Reflexology to Support Symptoms of Long Covid
Reflexology is a truly holistic therapy centred around each client’s unique requirements. No two people with Long Covid will experience the same symptoms so there is no reflexology ‘protocol’. Treatments are delivered on a “How are you today?” basis, as you may feel completely different tomorrow! It’s all about support, empathy and boosting confidence in your body’s own healing ability. You may feel like your body has been taken over and you have lost control over your health. This can cause great anxiety and fear, especially if your recovery period has been lengthy. When symptoms persist, you may experience depression or low mood. Reflexology brings the body back into balance and helps to restore physical and emotional wellness. It can ease anxiety, low mood and promote better sleep which helps you to heal and recover.
Please click below if you would like to chat about how reflexology may support your recovery from Long Covid, or to book an appointment.
Reflexology is not an alternative to medical advice. If you have concerns about your health or are worried about symptoms, please contact your GP.