Mailbag: Recovering from Fatigue and Cognitive Changes After COVID

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted October 29, 2024

“After recovering from a mild case of COVID, my perception of the world has changed. I feel that I am half asleep all the time and always tired, and normal tasks are more tiring and harder to undertake. 

Taking naps used to perk me up, but no longer. I do not drive anymore because what I view does not seem real, sort of like I am in a dream. 

My life for the last 6 months feels like I have become a zombie. I enter a store that I have been in many times before and it looks like it has gotten huge. 

I have seen my primary care doctor and a neurologist to no avail. My condition does not seem to be getting any better and maybe a little worse over time. 

I hope soon I will snap out of it but I am losing hope. 

Thanks, if you give this any thought. 

– Cheers, Peter”

Dear Peter,

I’m sorry to hear you’re experiencing these troubling symptoms.

Everyone’s situation is different, and I’m glad you’re consulting with your doctors about your case. It’s always my first piece of advice to folks facing a health crisis.

When my own patients come to me with similar complaints, I typically suspect post-COVID syndrome or “long COVID,” which can persist for months, even after a mild infection.

Unfortunately, these symptoms—particularly fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and altered perception—are common in this condition.

With my own patients, I often will explore various natural approaches that have shown promise in relieving some of these symptoms. Those can include…

• Adaptogens: Herbs like Rhodiola rosea and Ashwagandha can help combat fatigue and support your body’s stress response. They are traditionally used to boost energy and mental clarity.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s are found in fish oil or algae-based supplements and can support brain health and improve cognitive function.
• B-complex vitamins: The Bs are crucial for energy production and neurological function. A high-quality B-complex supplement could help with fatigue and cognition issues.
• Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E and compounds like quercetin and resveratrol can combat the oxidative stress associated with post-COVID syndrome.
• Lion’s Mane mushroom: This fungus has neuroprotective properties and may support cognitive function.
• Acupuncture: Some patients report improvements in fatigue and cognitive symptoms with regular acupuncture sessions.
• Mitochondrial support: Supplements like Coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine, and alpha-lipoic acid help boost cellular energy production.
• Graded exercise therapy: Gradually increasing physical activity under professional guidance might help combat fatigue over time. Conserving energy when battling post-COVID is crucial, so consulting with a physical therapist is best.

I always remind my patients that recovery from long COVID can be a slow process, and it’s vital to be patient with yourself. These natural approaches may help, but they’re not guaranteed solutions.

It’s essential to continue working with healthcare professionals knowledgeable about post-COVID syndrome.

Anyone battling long-term COVID symptoms such as fatigue should consider seeking out a functional medicine practitioner or a doctor specializing in post-viral syndromes. These practitioners can provide more targeted treatments based on detailed testing of their individual situation.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of community. Support groups can provide valuable emotional support and practical tips, as can connecting with others experiencing similar symptoms.

Stay hopeful. Many people do see improvement over time, even if progress is slow.

P.S. This common supplement could combat long COVID.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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