Yale University Physician Optimistic About Finding Cause of Long Covid
A physician at Yale University’s Long Covid clinic, Dr. Lisa Sanders, remains optimistic that researchers will be able to identify the core problem of Long Covid. Long Covid refers to the condition where individuals experience persistent symptoms after recovering from Covid-19. In New Zealand, it has been reported that one in five Covid-19 sufferers may go on to develop Long Covid.
Estimates from Otago University suggest that up to 150,000 New Zealanders may be battling or have battled Long Covid, with some estimations putting the number even higher. However, despite the significant number of affected individuals, the only publicly funded Long Covid clinic in the country is set to close at the end of this month.
The symptoms of Long Covid often include chronic fatigue and brain fog, which can severely impact a person’s ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Dr. Sanders, who currently runs Yale University’s Long Covid clinic, spends up to an hour speaking with each patient to understand their experiences and offer support.
One challenge in diagnosing and treating Long Covid is the lack of clear markers to identify the condition. While many patients report feeling inflamed, laboratory tests don’t often show signs of systemic inflammation. Another commonly reported symptom is exhaustion, with some patients describing it as every cell in their body being exhausted. Dr. Sanders has observed a correlation in Long Covid patients experiencing problems with their mitochondria, which could explain the pervasive exhaustion.
At present, there is no single treatment for Long Covid, and medical professionals can only address the various symptoms that arise and cause suffering in patients. While proposed treatments lack substantial evidence of effectiveness, researchers and medical experts are diligently working to find solutions.
Despite the higher prevalence of Long Covid in women, Dr. Sanders emphasizes that men are also affected by the condition, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing it as a legitimate and widespread issue.
Although the closure of the public Long Covid clinic in New Zealand raises concerns, the hope remains that further research and understanding will contribute to uncovering the underlying causes of Long Covid. The complexity of the disorder necessitates the expertise and collaboration of medical professionals, and Dr. Sanders is confident that progress will continue to be made in the pursuit of effective treatments and support for those living with Long Covid.