Vitamin D helps regulate calcium levels in the blood by enhancing its absorption in the intestines and reducing its excretion through the kidneys. These minerals are vital for the development and maintenance of strong and healthy bones.Īdequate vitamin D levels help prevent conditions like rickets in children and osteomalacia or osteoporosis in adults, which are characterized by weakened bones. One of the primary functions of vitamin D is to facilitate the absorption and utilization of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Here are some key reasons why vitamin D is important: Bone Health Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being. Treatment options may include a combination of medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive rehabilitation, psychological support, and lifestyle modifications. Managing long Covid requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. ![]() The condition can affect people of all ages, including those who initially had mild or asymptomatic cases of COVID-19. Long Covid can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making it challenging to carry out daily activities, return to work or school, and participate in physical or social activities. Some theories suggest that it could be due to persistent inflammation, immune system dysregulation, or the presence of viral remnants in the body. The exact cause of long Covid is not yet fully understood, and it can affect people regardless of the severity of their initial COVID-19 infection. People with long Covid may also experience heart palpitations, dizziness, gastrointestinal issues, skin problems, or other persistent symptoms. Loss of taste and smellĪ lingering or recurring loss or alteration of the sense of taste or smell. Anxiety and depressionįeelings of anxiety, depression, or changes in mood. Insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing non-restorative sleep. Headachesįrequent or chronic headaches that can be severe and persistent. Some individuals may experience chest discomfort or pain, which can be sharp or dull. Persistent or intermittent pain in muscles, joints, or other parts of the body. Often referred to as “brain fog,” individuals may experience problems with memory, concentration, or thinking clearly. Breathlessnessĭifficulty breathing or shortness of breath, even during simple activities. Persistent and extreme tiredness or exhaustion, even after minimal physical or mental exertion. Common symptoms of long Covid include: Fatigue The specific symptoms and their severity can vary widely among individuals. While many people recover from COVID-19 within a few weeks, some individuals continue to experience a range of physical, mental, and neurological symptoms for several weeks or months. Long Covid, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), refers to a condition where individuals experience persistent symptoms or new symptoms that last beyond the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection. ![]() The study is published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism and will be presented at the 25 th European Congress of Endocrinology in Istanbul (13-16 May, 2023). “Our study shows that Covid-19 patients with low vitamin D levels are more likely to develop long Covid but it is not yet known whether vitamin D supplements could improve the symptoms or reduce this risk altogether,” Giustina concluded. In future research, the scientists aim to investigate whether vitamin D supplements could reduce the risk of long Covid. “The highly-controlled nature of our study helps us better understand the role of vitamin D deficiency in long Covid, and establish that there is likely a link between vitamin D deficiency and long Covid.” “Previous studies on the role of vitamin D in long Covid were not conclusive mainly due to many confounding factors,” said senior author Andrea Giustina, an expert in Endocrine and Metabolic Sciences at the Vita-Salute San Raffaele University. ![]() Moreover, the vitamin D levels were lower in patients who experienced so-called “brain fog” symptoms, such as confusion, forgetfulness, or poor concentration. By measuring their vitamin D levels when first admitted to the hospital and six months after their discharge, they found lower levels of vitamin D in those with long Covid. None of these patients had any previous bone-related conditions, and did not end up in intensive care units (ICUs). The experts examined 100 patients aged 51-71, with or without long Covid. Although a risk factor for worse outcomes for hospitalized Covid patients – such as intubation, mechanical ventilation, or even death – is known to be low vitamin D levels, its role in long Covid has not yet been thoroughly assessed.
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