Know how to cope with Post-COVID-symptoms!

As we see the rise in COVID recoveries in India, It is equally important to shift or rather divide our attention from the health active COVID cases to the health of Post-COVID-recovery cases. Organizations like the CDC and WHO, along with our own Ministry of Health and Family welfare have come out with protocols to manage the recovery phase. This blog intends to highlight the protocol as well as steps that can be taken in order to better manage the post-Covid-19 recovery phase. 

Lets know more about the Problems that people may experience after surviving COVID. 

1. Breathlessness. 

Due to the damage caused by the virus to the lungs and other organs, the body takes time to recover and get back to its former state. You should reach out to an occupational therapist for help in adjusting to your new energy levels and limitations. Additionally, some of the exercises that could help are:

• Self- Awake Proning
• Pranayam- Alternate Nostril Breathing
• Incentive Spirometry
• The Balloon Exercise
• Forward lean sitting
• Forward lean sitting (no table in front)
• Forward lean standing
• Standing with back support

2. Difficulties in getting back to normal voice. 

COVID-19 virus you may experience some temporary changes to the sound of your voice, and to your comfort and effort levels when using it. Sometimes people may have difficulties with their voice after being ventilated. 

• Keep talking when it is comfortable. 
• Do not strain your voice. 

• Take a rest. 
• Try humming 
• Use other ways of communicating
• Sip water

3. Troubles Swallowing: 

If you were ventilated, you may notice you have some difficulty with swallowing food and drink. This is because the muscles that help with swallowing may have become weak. Eating well and drinking water/juice is important to your recovery.

• Paying attention to swallowing
• Sit upright whenever you eat or drink. 
• Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after meals.
• Try foods of different consistencies 
• Eat smaller meals

4. Difficulties in mental processes. 

It is very common for people who have been severely unwell to experience new difficulties with attention, remembering things, and thinking clearly. This might impact your relationships, daily activities, and your return to work or education.Practicing Physical exercises and mental exercises like puzzles, mind games etc can help in coping up with such conditions. 

5. Stress, Anxiety and Depression. 

Being extremely unwell in hospital can be a highly stressful experience. This can have an understandably difficult impact on your mood. It is not unusual to experience feelings of stress, anxiety (worry, fear) or depression (low mood, sadness). Therefore, after recovery stay socially connected with your family and friends. Talk to them and let them know when you need them. It will be fine soon. 

If these symptoms do not heal even after right interventions, you might need to  contact a medical professional.