Dedicated researchers continue publishing papers about findings related to Long COVID, and those lead to new questions. (written 08/05/2024)

We at ThriveNinety are always interested in new research about Long COVID and post-infection conditions. Knowing what impact infections have on our bodies and why people experience certain symptoms is important to help us develop effective symptom management tools. If you can get closer to the root cause of issues, you are able to address them and get back to feeling more like yourself.  

We know that Long COVID results in poor health in both near-term and longer-term, with evidence showing an increased risk of serious health issues, including cancer, stroke, heart problems, and Alzheimer’s. 

Good science never stops asking questions. Research always starts with a question or hypothesis to test and leads the research community to the next set of questions to ask. Some research delivers significant new understanding, other studies may help us understand the picture more fully by offering incremental knowledge. All are valuable, and help deepen our understanding and help direct further research topics. 

Our focus is to add value and support people by taking in the available research and translating that into practical insights and actions for those who get this newsletter, follow us on social media, listen to podcasts we are invited to, or join one of our web-based programs. We work off of available knowledge and our experience supporting people with their recovery journeys. We also consider the next set of questions that need to be answered because knowing where the boundaries of knowledge are is itself a sign of knowledge and experience.  

New research finds that COVID-19 infects & significantly damages sensory and autonomic neurons before the virus infects the blood. Based on research and lived experience of millions of people with Long COVID we already knew that there is a large impact on the nervous system. Now, research is showing that the nervous system is one of the first parts of the body to be impacted, even before the blood can transport the virus to tissue and organs. 

Since day one, ThriveNinety has focused on nervous system regulation and we have a range of tools in our program that are specifically designed to improve nervous system functioning. Those who we have coached know we have a range of tools so that different aspects of nervous system functioning can be addressed and people can find the tools that work best for them. If you haven’t been part of one of our programs, you can still benefit from some of the support we offer to help people feel better, please make use of the three free tools. And do let us know what you think, we love hearing from you!  

One final reflection: sometimes having an understanding of what is driving symptoms can help support understanding, give a sense of control, and help calm the nervous system because the “threat” is no longer a mystery. That knowledge also helps us be able to take control through actions that can ease symptoms. 

It's so great that we are able to start to unpack some of the mysteries of Long COVID and post-infection conditions and take action to start to feel better.
We will also keep asking questions to support deeper understanding. 

Warmly,  
Katie & Andrea

PS. Having knowledge is powerful to start to unlock understanding, and inform what actions may be helpful to take. Knowledge also prompts further questions like: “Why is the nervous system affected in people with post-viral conditions”? Fortunately, there are steps we can take to start to address these issues and take back more control of life and ease symptoms.