I had long Covid for 14 months and thought it would never leave me.I was so short of breath.and one week,last month, my symptoms literally disappeared. I think this is so important to let people know because some people are committing suicide at their 12 month mark, thinking it will never leave, but if they only hang in there a little longer, they may have my experience.I had a pulmonary appointment yesterday and now breathe better than an average woman my age they tell me.Two months ago I would have sworn I had COPD.Hang in there.I know the anxiety and depression that accompany your symptoms are difficult-I had anxiety from the sever shortness of breath I had for 14 months...
I've been having a mental meltdown the last few days, tired of treading water and grabbing for something to hold on to. Your presentation is a reaching hand. Thank you!
I totally agree that attending to breaking that loop and resetting the nervous system is critical (alongside the various supplements and pacing.) Breathwork and meditation are extremely powerful tools. The mind/body connection is fundamental yet is often overlooked - body and brain treated as separate. Strange really. A train that was simply carriages with no engine and a cognitively balanced driver is never going to go anywhere. We are exactly the same. Vagus nerve reset - look it up on UA-cam - is powerful and very good and super simple. Insight Timer app offers lots of free meditations. For breathwork you can start using these classic two bells - breathe in fully stomach to shoulders as it were on bell one, breath out on bell two and so on. Start with just a few minutes as if you have some SOB it can take time to build up. www.breathyoga.org/rfb
you cant clear dead virus debris out of your system,thats whats keeping you sick,low atp levels is the problem,if you dont know what causes low atp levels its going to be very difficult to recover,long covid is easily healed in ten days
I had dehabilitating long covid symptoms from December 2020-May 2021. I am 22 years old and have just started to feel better over the last few weeks. It was the scariest and hardest time of my life. My blood pressure was in the 170’s and I had to start taking tons of meds, I could barely get through school, go on walks, and some days even get out of bed. I was unable to exercise at all or it made my symptoms much worse. I had terrible headaches and my blood pressure would get extremely high if I exerted too much in a day. Sometimes exerting too much was just standing for too long. It is so nice to be better and it really made me grateful for the life I was given by God. When you are so sick for months with no end in sight, it really makes you realize just how vulnerable we are. To all of you still struggling, you will get through it. It took me months but eventually I got back to normal out of nowhere. Getting sunlight, eating more vegetables, and going on walks have helped me a lot. Hope this helps some of you with the mental aspect of recovery. It was the hardest part for me not knowing if the symptoms would ever go away.
Wow, so scary. Because the whole world of course does not know if your symptoms will go away. But you're doing the things that heal, and eventually the strength of youth will help you recover. It sounds similar to ME and other chronic conditions, where being active makes it worse. Maybe the answer lies there?
Hey Cole, glad ur better. So ur saying out of the blue u started getting better. Did u have depression and axiety, weird brain stuff. Its like ur chemicals in brain get messed up. What kinds of medicines did u take besides bp meds, if u dont mind saying
@brotherj3482 hey there brotherj3482 , I'm so so so much better , I'm 30 months into long covid now. It's kinds hard to say but after like 28 months I really started noticing my energy pick up and less relapses if u know what I mean. Hang in there, it's a super slow recovery but I'm shure u will as well
Yesterday was one of my darkest days. Stuck thinking Covid will affect me forever. I woke up to this video and it lifted me up like nothing else has. Thank you so much for providing some hope that this WILL end. 🙏🏻
Gez you’ve been the one ray of hope throughout my Long Covid experience and have inspired me to get out of a dark hole and start sharing my own experiences and tips with others too. I can’t thank you enough for the work you have done - you genuinely have changed my life.
Please look up Dr Tina Peers she is a Long covid specialist and treats the condition with supplements and medication that is also for people with Mast Cell Activation disorder. This treatment really works I suffer with Mcas and it has helped me enormously.
@@cherylwilliams4245 there's no such thing as a long covid specialist. Tina Peers is, at best, a specialist in her area of interest. There's zero evidence available yet to prove a link between MCAS and Long Covid, and if or when there is, it'll only apply to a small percentage of sufferers.
@@ramsaymeldrum3964 She is a doctor who researches and treats symptoms of long covid . Peolple who listen to her you tube channel and podcasts can make their own judgement whether her advice is worth a try.
The video is slightly more balanced than it might initially have seemed based on the title - particularly highlighting and acknowledging the importance of time on recovery was good. However I think the impact of time on mental well-being is also important. Developing any long term or chronic illness is similar to a bereavement and the cycle of grief is something that has been equated to the loss of previous health status. People each need different amounts of time to work through and back and forth between denial, anger, bargaining, acceptance etc and this is a normal human response. I certainly think talking to others can be helpful - whether that is peers or professionals but we still need time to process these normal emotions. Are some of the things we think unhelpful - yes. Do some of them hinder recovery - also yes. Changing thoughts is not always about denying its truth but if reducing the negative impact of believing that. One example I have used in the past working with people with fatigue is this: Unhelpful thought - I didn’t do anything all weekend = I’m lazy. Subsequent action - pushing self too hard to disprove this. Or alternatively giving in to the lazy label and not trying to do anything. Leads to negative emotions, frustration, sadness etc. Challenge the thought. Is it that I’m lazy or is it that the previous week was so busy I have simply run out of energy this weekend. Does my belief that I am lazy come from my fear of what other people see when they don’t know how I feel etc? Challenging the thought lessens the impact which then leads to healthier behaviours. Resulting behaviour. I’m going to plan and pace my week better so that when the weekend comes I can do the things I enjoy. This is how CBT approaches can be used beneficially in chronic illness. As an occupational therapist I recognise the need to create a connection between your old patterns of doing and balancing this alongside current strengths and limitations which is part of what you describe here. In fact you connected your old occupation of filmmaking to learning and sharing information about LC (in effect your own Occupational Therapy). You will have adapted the way you did that, given yourself more time etc but still got that positive feedback loop from that occupation. The exercise example - I know that there is a lot of caution attached to exercise (and rightly so where PEM/PESE exists) however if someone’s identity is or has been intrinsically linked to the ability to exercise, managing energy to allow participation in exercise may be worth it for them. Some people would rather get support with household tasks to allow them that energy to pace and return to exercise slowly. They may change the type of exercise or the duration etc. Someone in the UA-cam comments discussed finances, and the ability to pay or seek out support is hugely influential in recovery and not everyone can afford this. Unfortunately our health care systems have not been structured or resourced in a way to help us. Either with assessment or treatment. We can therefore not blame people for seeking support anywhere or anyway they can. The risk of generalising results/experiences to entire populations can have hugely negative implications. What works for you might not work for me and vice versa. People have different lives, responsibilities, underlying health conditions, personality types and all of this impacts on recovery. We can not simply say - because you spent too much time thinking about being ill that’s why you are ill. We can say because you were not given support to think about how to reframe and refocus your life based on your current experience that is why you are ill. Because you were not believed that forced you to prove that you are ill. The medical gaslighting and trauma of this impacted on your recovery. Within health and social care, medicine, psychology etc the importance of understanding the individual and their own context is vital. I have huge advantages over another women who has three children in terms of being able to carve out time for myself however I am single and self employed so if I don’t work I have no money. That brings its own stressors. Take the issue re labelling or identifying with the LC diagnosis or even identifying as disabled. Just because you accept that label or that becomes part of how you identify does not mean that is your entire experience. Would you call out people that have a Twitter handle - gardenerofdaisies as limiting their experience to just gardening daisies and then blame them for not reading and knitting etc as well? How do you not know that they have other accounts that focus on other aspects of their experience. Social media account names are often designed to connect with others to share experience. I have a personal and a business account, and an account to represent groups I belong to for example. On each of them I talk about more than just that topic but if people want to know specifically more about OT they follow my business accounts. If they want more book recommendations and dog pictures they follow my personal one. It is a little disingenuous to judge someone on the front they present on social media. Some people additional tweet separately under a LC identity for advocacy reasons or because they need to remain anonymous. Connecting with Long Covid social media has been a hugely important method of gaining information, advocacy etc. As in all aspects of life we need to look at the information we come across critically. What position is someone coming from? What is their aim with this tweet, blog post, video. Etc. Some people have more skills of critical analysis than others but we are all human and can easily be led astray by emotions and the desire to go back to normal. The important thing is being able to identify when social media/peer support can help and when it can hinder. It is not a straightforward it’s good or it’s bad thing. You have done a lot of good with your work. Now things are looking brighter please exercise caution about applying your reality to everyone else. This is quite an ableist thing to do and that is why people are being criticised for sharing their views because they are basically saying. Well I got better so why can’t you? That was longer and more rambling than I intended but I just wanted to share another viewpoint.
I really appreciated this video. I've been following you and watching your videos for some time. This video resonates with my experience a lot too; like you I also first got sick mid-march. One thing that I found immensely helpful for the "mind" side of things, was the podcast "Tell Me About Your Pain". Although that podcast is primarily about back pain, I found I was able to apply many of the same ideas in it to my long COVID recovery. One of the trickiest things that you don't really touch on, but was a major issue for me, is that, especially early on in my recovery, my breathing was severely disrupted. Normally, slow, deep breathing, and meditation and movement arts that incorporate such breathing, are the #1 thing I turn to for dialing down nervous system unrest and anxiety. But my breathing was both disrupted and often painful. It was harder to breathe deeply, harder to breathe slower, and my deep breathing would sometimes set off pain, and there were times when the whole breathing apparatus just hurt no matter what I did. This made it very hard to tap into this method for relaxation. I saw a therapist about this and between that, online reading, and the pain podcast, I settled on the practice of, when it was unpleasant to focus on my breathing, instead finding other sensations in my body to bring my attention to, and also sensations in my physical environment that I found pleasing. When I was too unwell to exercise, I would look out the window and watch clouds, or listen to bird songs out the window. As I got better, I would go sit outside, and then as I got even better, I would go on long, slow walks, listening to birds and birdwatching and counting and recording birds. In terms of my body, in spite of the fact that COVID affected many different body systems, I also found that there were a lot of things that were actually not at all disrupted by COVID. Unlike many people with LC, my GI tract worked pretty well. My skin has stayed pretty nice and soft, with no irritation, through this whole thing. Although my chest muscles were all messed up, my legs felt pretty good, especially as I started walking again. Focusing on the things in my body that felt good helped provide me with something to focus on in mindfulness meditation, when I couldn't focus on breathing. Now I'm recovered enough that I can do breathing exercises just fine, and the pain is usually absent and when not absent, mild enough that the meditation itself usually dials it down. I also found it really important to emphasize my own inner strength. I have overcome a lot of challenges in life. It was hard for me to adjust to the long time-scale of the COVID recovery, but once I realized that it was going to be a much longer, tougher process than initially depicted in the media, I was determined to do it and to do it well. Instead of focusing on those days when I couldn't do this or couldn't do that, I focused on what I *could* do and what I *did* do. That one day early in the recovery, I not only biked, I biked up a hill and my lungs and my cardiovascular system worked well enough that I not only did it, but felt okay afterwards. I would remember that moment for weeks and weeks and I kept reminding myself: "I got there once, I will get there again." I remember one day I was out on a walk and my breathing was restricted and my HR went up and I was having trouble and I almost turned back, but then I focused on that one moment and I was like: "I got up that hill before on my bike...this is easier, I can do it." and I found my anxiety left my mind and body and although it didn't make my breathing perfect, it made it BETTER, and it made it better enough that I was able to finish the full length of my walk and feel good when I got back. That was kind-of a turning point to me, when I realized just how mental this thing was, that I couldn't let myself restrict things out of fear. I also stopped saying "I can't do this." and started problem solving, instead making it: "How?" I would go shopping, and I knew I was too unwell to take everything up but I also knew that I did well with longer-duration, lower-intensity exercise, so I just took the bags up the stairs one-by-one. I started running with energy when I had it. Instead of focusing on the times I had no energy to cook, I would say, hey, right now, I have energy to cook, so why don't I just cook until I run out of energy? And I'd end up doing food prep for 3-4 days worth of food and then the next day, if I ended up being totally beat, it didn't matter, cause I had all this wonderful food I had already made up. And if I felt good on that day, then bonus...I could turn to doing something else. I started getting more work done. Early on I would have terrible shortness of breath if I ate too many carbs, so I just would focus on eating fish and cheese and nuts and other things that seemed not to cause trouble for me. I'd have these little tiny fish and eat them one at a time and have a friend coach me on the phone. I wouldn't beat myself up for not being able to eat more, but instead I'd try to celebrate every amount I was able to eat without developing shortness of breath. Later as I got better I would make dumplings and it was a celebration because I actually not only had the energy to fry the dumplings in a pan but I was able to eat them without problems as they had some carbs in them. I tried to focus not on what I had lost, but on what I was regaining, and that helped me keep going. I am still having new victories. The other day I drank two beers and not only felt fine in the moment, I felt fine the next day too. I am able to do pushups again and I don't feel terrible the next day. I can eat a really big meal now too! And now I'm really motivated in my work and some days I'm able to concentrate 100% as well as I used to be able to (which was never perfectly all the time haha) and it's fantastic. I'm still not 100% recovered but...I'm living my life again and it's really great, and focusing on how great it is has been instrumental in me continuing to feel better!
Thank you so much for sharing such a detailes account of your experience and success! It is great to read amd is very helpful for those who are just starting the journey. Congrats on yoir recovery!
I get anxiety and depression and it is horrendous I can’t explain it. I’m on 100mg sertraline per day and have applied for talking therapy via the nhs , may go private . Trying to eat better and plan to go to gym for 5-10 mins doing something very light . Seven months long Covid so far. Seem to be improving every couple of months. It is scary . If you are freaking out now and then AND have the energy try to keep active or busy. Talk to people if you can, meet family and friends if you can. Do things if you can . Any tips from anyone would be welcome 🙏.
Your eyes look less tired I’m happy for you. You can tell someone really is long hauling by the tiredness in their eyes and dark circles. Yours seem to be clearing up!! Keep us posted but take a break if it helps to distance yourself from it all.
i watch a lot of UA-cam videos vs. other streaming services. I tend to look forward to watching channels where the person is genuinely positive and looking forward to life. yes, content is important, but even though there are many people to choose from for each content category, certain people stick out. you are one of them. you find a way to explain things clearly without sounding condescending. so thank you for making these videos and keeping people updated on how you are doing.
I 100% agree. Well done. I am doing pacing, visualisation, breathing, positive self-talk, yoga nidra, meditation, doing some gardening (a new activity for me), as well as antihistamines, NSAIDS, vitamins and supplements, nightly Epsom salt baths. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel now too 👍🏻. We’ve got this. ❤️ (Oh and congrats on your paramedic training)
@@TheBushRanger. I am fully recovered! I went back to work once I was physically, but not fully cognitively, better. I had a slow phased return over 3 months, to get my brain working again. I walk my dog every day and do weight training twice a week. I didn’t go back to running because I found that I didn’t miss it. I still do yoga nidra most day, because it makes me feel good. My only meds are vitamins, and one cetirizine per day for hayfever. My diet is good, but doesn’t need to be totally perfect. I’m feeling good 👍🏻. How are you?
@@boxerdogmum583 I’m struggling with a concussion and covid. I have joint pain and neuro issues. Trying to claw my way back but this could be the end of me. Only 28. Thanks
Wonderful video that sums everything up. And I am thrilled to hear that you are recovering. Your recovery process has been very similar to mine. And now may I throw out some unsolicited advice from a grandmother who used to work in media? Being an EMT is certainly a noble profession. and you’ll help lots of individuals. But with your work here, you are helping huge numbers of people. It is not for nothing that some of your videos get 1 million views. You have a personal style and delivery that is unique, warm,, and inspiring. You are extremely articulate and empathic. When it comes to changing careers, I hope you will think big!
Hi Lynn. Thank you for the lovely message. You may or may not be surprised to hear that my thinking has come round to be very closely aligned to yours 🤣 The paramedic profession and the NHS generally is not one that values independent thought and big ideas. Both of which are rather important to me.
Your channel has been a bright beacon during my journey as a long haul COVID-19 survivor. Like you, I considered myself a fit person before the infection. Your example of being open and investigative during your journey has inspired me with sharing my journey on Reddit and with the Facebook groups, encouraging others who are in the dark and frightened. Countless numbers of times I have recommended the RUN-DMC channel. About 98% recovered, but talking about it, what worked and didn't work, and being brutally honest about my emotional state has helped others who are going through it.
Aspirin is so interesting, because for me, it cleared out my breathing from unbearable to being able to at least move around slowly. And every time I stop eating it, it takes a few days, and then I get a massive episode, with chest pain, disorientation, numbing of my arm and side, and breathing just crashes. And then when I start taking it again, I stay stable. After 4 times of trying to stop, and crashing each time, I'm now not going to stop until I know I am completely 100% in the clear, but it would be interesting to know why. I finally got my first dose though(Sweden is a bit slow, and didn't prioritise risk groups in my area, so June 16th was my first), and I might be wrong, but I sort of feel a bit more stable. So who knows, maybe I can stop eating Aspirin soon!
@@RUNDMC1 what dose of aspirin is recommended please? Can I also ask if SSRI's are recommended for their anti-inflammatory response as well as anti-depressents?
Well done Gez - you've hit the nail on the head! I'm also at 14+ months and really turned a corner recently. Over the last 6 months I've been doing: diet, supplements, yoga, yoga nidra & cranial osteopath and all helped. But in last 2 months I've really focused on 'stress' - EFT has been helpful, and I've recently started the Individual Psychology Programme with the Optimum Health Clinic (OHC), which has really accelerated my recovery in the last month - back working, climbed a fell in the Lake District, socialising and generally feeling good. So great to hear and see you're doing so much better. You've been a fantastic advocate for our cause and I wish you all the best in your continued recovery my friend :)
Forgot to add... such a shame I've been able to do this because I'm financially able to. To date the only thing the NHS has offered me is anti-depressants. I really hope this stuff becomes available to all/on the NHS (but having had an autoimmune disease for 10 years and similar treatment, I doubt it). What I would say to people who can't afford private alternative treatment is there is a lot available out there for free you can do to help your self e.g. yoga (See Suzy Bolt yoga on Facebook and UA-cam), Stasis Breathing Covid Recovery Programme, mindfulness, even Gupta and OHC offer some stuff for free.
You have no idea how much you help me. You are really talented in making these videos. I know of no one who makes high-calibre videos like you. Please continue for us, even if you get better, don't forget us 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Genuine thanks Gez you have helped me through this process immeasurably. I think that the mental challenge is at least as bad as the physical symptoms for me. Glad to see things are looking up for you - I hope to be joining you sooner rather than later. And welcome to the NHS, I work in CT/MRI. Paramedics are hardcore.
I have had Covid 440 days today with no medical insurance. I am 71, incredibly active, very young looks, actions and thought processes. Am Pastor of church and 2 Mission Houses in Iowa. 291days ago all properties were devastated by “worst inland hurricane in US history”. You can do this. Listen 👂 to this program. I woke up in a panic an hour ago as I have not been able to handle many of my responsibilities. Kick it out-those thoughts. No one understands around us. We have to tell others (who won’t mock us) as we journey, mostly alone. I have eliminated the histamine and histamine foods and the rash and constant itching is mostly gone!!! We will fight to get well. Great things are ahead. It’s much better w/ God.
You missed out an important factor: financial resources. I have seen this time and time again; recovery stories from those who have the ability and financial stability to leave work, and to pay for different treatments. Stuff like cranial osteopathy and help with psychology is out of reach of most. I'm glad you included 'Time' as a factor. We should not overlook the fact that most people will recover with time, through a natural process. The other issue is that with so many interventions, it becomes impossible to disentangle the effect of any particular intervention. How did you arrive at the decision to take an SSRI? And, given the point I made above, can you say whether you think it helped or not?
@@Wds__99 Many struggle with Fluvoxamine as highly serotinergic - it may have superior anti-inflam properties. We often recommend starting at just 10mg but this needs a special compounded script. People respond differently to SSRI's - many tolerate escitalopram but some makes nauseas and anxious. Old school prozac seems to be a good choice well tolerated in covid too. (FYI I have MCRPsych background so qualified to answer
@@fabulousdoc thanks for that dr. I was taking 50 mg once per day. I’m thinking of Zoloft next because I tolerated that in the past. But I don’t know if it has the same anti inflammatory properties, which I’m really after for Covid.
I am amazed to learn that you are not a professional medical scientist. I have been suffering from this for 17 months now (since a fairly mild infection in February 2020) and I have found your videos so, so, so helpful! Thanks so much.
Glad you are feeling better! You have been suffering for a very long time with long covid. I too am finally feeling a bit better although I am still having problems with fatigue. You have not only helped me with my long covid , but have given me hope to beat it. Kindest regards.✨
Hello, i am glad that you are feeling much better . As a psychiatrist i can say that there is very often ( and wecan understand this) , a psychological effect with last longing deasease and even mental health issues such as AnXiety, depression , addictiion suicidal crisis etc . Fantastic job you did! .Have a nice WE .Pascale from France
Thank you Gez for posting your TLC 😄 presentation here! Your generosity continues... 💖 I like your lists of thoughts and questions very much. I definitely relate, and think they will help a lot of people! I also appreciate your lists of physical support you continue to follow. It is indeed helpful to remember how we are a work in progress and a story still writing itself... Very cool to see that acupuncture and cranial adjustments are helping, as I had expected they might! Postcard from my version of this journey, circa right now 😄: " Things that are working - * pushing back against all sources of excess stress (including public fear flavours-of-the-week!) * pacing * anti-inflammatory diet (ketogenic with intermittent fasting, for now) * sunshine & sea air (Vit D & Vit Sea!) 🌞🌊⛱️ * taking steps towards dreams deferred " Enjoy your EMT training! You are in good company there! 💝💝💝
Gez, I’m so happy to hear that you’re starting to turn the corner! I’m only 7 months out but all your videos have made my journey much easier! Are you planning to begin phasing out all supplements and pharmaceuticals soon or do you think you’ll stick with them a while longer?
@@RUNDMC1 Gez where do you get your ivermectin from? I found All day Chemist who say they ship to the UK but cautious to order without a recommendation x
I’m a veteran from 16/3/20 so feel like we have been on the same journey. Good to see you looking better, I’m also beginning to see an improvement - just hope it’s not another false dawn. Thanks for all the hours you’ve spent sharing the information you’ve unraveled.
This is 100% me! I haven't splashed out on the therapies mentioned or indeed had any of the medication but I've found my own equivalents. Researching and chatting to folk on forums about how to manage LC has been so so helpful but can also be incredibly stressful. I watched a long covid seminar a couple of months ago and was so upset by it I realised that I was stressing myself out rather than helping myself. I'm so lucky to have been able to visit my parents recently and been looked after and distracted. I'm sure it's played a huge part in breaking the cycle of negative thoughts. I think the brain fog and fatigue can make it feel impossible to get out of the rut. I'm sure there will be hurdles yet but I haven't consistently felt this good in 15 months. So pleased to hear of Gez and others on the same path!
So beautiful presentation… This video made me to be touched and happy at the same time. Long hauling for over 4 months. You have been one of my main sources of information and most of your advices were extremely helpful. At one point I thought I was recovered, after I started Niacin. But no, of course. Anxiety and heart palpitations returned after some time, other symtoms have been somehow managable. But I started to meditate and considering yoga. Positive approach is the key. Even though it’s a rollercoaster (that none of me around understand), we will all get well one day! I saw every video of yours. Some several times. Thank you for your immensely important research and work! Greetings from Prague, Czech rep.
I’m so pleased you’re doing so much better. Your videos have been really useful in my own journey towards recovery. Some more relatable to my situation than others.I was probably a little bit ahead of the game by already practicing yoga for breathing, meditation, relaxation and balance , pre-covid. Who knew this would be an advantage in a viral illness! Anyway thank you for your research and information. Take care 😃
Woo hoo🎉 so happy to hear you are doing better both for yourself and also for all of us to keep trying! I have had some better days lately and it just feels wonderful when you feel human again:)
I got sick early last March 2020 too. I heard you speak at the amazing TLC conference this past weekend. Your talk brought tears to my eyes as you described exactly what’s been going on in my head. A week ago, I actually had some really dark thoughts about not wanting to continue to live like this. I’ve never experienced anything like that before. You gave me a lot of hope that I can get out of this dark feedback loop I am stuck in. Last week I just started to see an integrative medicine practitioner who is suggesting a lot of the things that said are helping you. I’m feeling hopeful for the first time in a really long time. Thank you so much for all that you’ve been doing to help us understand the long hauler condition. PS- I also watched your interview with Tommy Woods. I just bought some new piano music, I’ve been learning to use a new graphics program (for fun, not work) and I’m going to try Duolingo like you mentioned. All things I can do to help my brain.
You are absolutely true, Gez! This video made me realize that letting go this illness is kind of painfull... It seems crazy, but I think it's because I really identified me with this, too. So true!!! I'm happy you're ok and I am certain that we all are going to be some day. Stay healthy and good luck with your new job!
This is one of your best videos Mr. Gez! Especially because you’ve announced you're so much closer to full recovery! Well Done Sir! You’re certainly one dynamic dude and should be eligible for some kind of UA-cam award or something for going above and beyond helping us all out so much with these videos… Really Glad you’re doing well. I believe my recovery is improving too… Thanks once again for all the hard work you put in. (Mike from Jersey, US)
A local woman who was a Long Hauler committed suicide recently, her husband appeared on CNN. It is a soul crushing illness since we still can't feel like ourselves even with symptom suppression doing it's work and that's where we fail to understand how inflammation can cause anxiety, depression, and yes....thoughts of turning the lights out on that despair. Glad you're doing better, Gez. You've been tireless in your pursuit of truth, I can never thank you enough. Got contact info (?) we're working on an Integrative Medicine protocol here that doesn't require Rx meds & would love to share info when we get further down the road....
I appreciate your videos! My 12-year-old son had a “mystery virus” this past November that triggered dysautonomia and a new daily persistent headache. He never got a positive covid test, but so much of what you have been posting has been helpful to us. As his primary caregiver, I have especially benefited from this presentation because I have been so consumed by researching to help him heal. We have made big strides, but I think the next step to healing may be letting go and living life! My son is doing much better at this than I am, even with his non-stop headache!
It doesn't necessarily have to be Covid. Gamma Herpes virus and HHV infections can trigger a very similar or even the same condition, called ME/CFS. They all share the association with MCAS and vasodilation of blood vessels in the brain area, thereby causing headache.
@@matfax yes, I agree. I am grateful for the research going into long covid because it can only benefit others who are suffering in similar ways from other viruses. I have had to be an advocate for my son because no one really knew what was going on. I was the one who had to suggest melatonin because he wasn’t sleeping. I was the one who noticed his heart rate issues and how nothing helped him feel better except a Gatorade. I feel like everything had to come from me, when it should have been from the doctor. It seems like there should be a set of tests and a clearer protocol for what to do when someone doesn’t seem to be recovering from a virus.
@@aundreacarrillo4345 I feel your situation. You aren't alone with this. It has been like this for ages for ME patients, especially for their caring relatives. Chronic diseases hit the closest relatives the worst, even worse than the patients themselves, I mean mentally. It's not untypical that relatives get burn out or chronic stress related health issues themselves because there's no care and they are left alone. Fortunately, there seems to be a shift in the perception in the medical community now, slowly but steadily. For ages, ME has been stigmatised as a psychosomatic disease in order to deny patients any kind of treatment, driven by insurance lobby groups and their disinformation funding. When a medical practicioner brings up this card, they are most likely stuck in the previous century where they even classified and stigmatised HIV the same way initially. They are just too sensitive, they think that they are ill and this is why they are ill, it's just mass hysteria, it's probably their homosexuality that makes them psychologically ill, these were the explanations from physicians that the first wave of HIV patients had to face. It's just a way of getting rid of the patient. History keeps repeating...
@@matfax my son did get a chronic fatigue diagnosis. I only found out when the school showed me the note the doctor sent them to excuse his absences. From my perspective, it felt like a diagnosis that said there was nothing more to be done for him except send him to a specialist any time I had a complaint and just let time heal. I can’t imagine being a child with no advocate in this situation. I know for a fact that he would still be bed bound.
THANK YOU for making all your content but especially for your controversial opinion! I'm 6 months in and been stressing for 3 of them about proving I'm ill and feeding and washing myself! Now I finally have the help I need and much more relaxed, and my symptoms are magically wayyy better (last 4 days anyway 😁). Go patient activists!!
I have been thinking of sending you a message asking you if you could make a video on the psychology of long covid. And I open my browser... and here it is ! Congratulations. When you are alone at night and you begin getting heart palpitations things can become very scary. Having difficulty breathing and having having to lie down on the sofa after taking a shower is scary, all this, daily, accumulates and can really bring one down. Thank you for your video. Psychology is so important.
Thanks Max - you’re quite right, the whole long covid experience is *fundamentally* scary. And this is why it sets the sympathetic nervous system off. So we have to do whatever we can to break ourselves out of this loop 👍
Excellent presentation! I left the Long Covid Support Group and focused on the Histamine Intolerance about 8 weeks past seeing your "Here's How to Treat LC", because I was burning out on encouraging the downcast. Recovering from CFS 15 years ago I learned the psychology lessons you are discussing here and spent hours typing re-directing responses to miserably sick and depressed people. I'm at 98% recovery from Sept initial infection, then Feb 8 start of addressing histamines right from your video!! I continue to share it and receive affirmations of how it has helped others. Going back to LC group with this one immediately. God bless ❤🙏❤
Histamine intolerance is a genetically predisposed condition. I think you might confuse this with MCAS, which also triggers histamine release and requires a similar therapy. In HI, histamine can not be properly degraded because one of the participating enzymes is genetically defective. You'd notice this quite early in your life. To be fair, mild histamine degradation issues aren't infrequent with MCAS, but this doesn't make it a primary issue with histamine tolerance when the core issue are unstable mast cells releasing excessive amounts of histamine, thereby bringing the histamine degradation to its limits.
@@matfax not sure what to do with all that. I did develop severe hay fever around age 15, lived on antihistamines every spring/summer since (I'm now 75). About 30+ years ago I developed random bouts of tachycardia and insomnia (never connected). With long covid the TC increased intensity and frequency. Following Gez's video on How To Treat LC brought me to HI. I have resolved my LC and most of my HI, as well as the TC and insomnia ...does it matter if I call it HI or MCAS?
@@judymiller5154 It matters a bit in that mast cell stabilizers don't only resolve histamine-related issues but also the other inflammatory signals that the mast cells send. Ketotifen is a drug that combines antihistamine and mast cell stabilizing mechanisms. Rupatadin is another antihistamine that can partly inhibit mast cell signaling. Side effects of both medications might slightly differ, sleepiness being the most common one. Both are prescription drugs that require medical advice. I hope it helps.
@@matfax I do appreciate you taking the time to kindly share the information about those medications. However, I still dont understand why I would care, being nearly fully recovered - just some diet changes and some fitness to regain. And no thanks to anything that might dampen my vitality or mental acuity. At 75, everyday of near-peak wellness is a total treasure...just got back from a 4 mile jog, putting finishing touches on a bathroom updating, then off to play with my 2 horses! God bless ❤🙏❤
Good morning Gez, you mention in the video that you take more supplements than would fit on the list, just wondering if you take more than your initial 'stack' you have previously listed?
Btw, I tested positive for IgG a month after my first "recovery". Two weeks later I tested again for antibodies and it come out negative. I tested again in January this year and, again, negative. No antibodies at all. After one month of my first shot of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine I tested "very" positive for neutralizing antibodies. I am waiting for my second shot.
Gez, I am glad you are doing better and bet time was the main cause. But, in this presentation, I question your cause and effect conclusions about the mind. How often do Long Haulers ask themselves those presented questions (eg, “will I ever get better?) on “good days?” I’m guessing, based on myself, not very often! Yes, we SHOULD pay attention to our psyche and strive for positive thoughts (and treat psychiatric conditions!), but I feel getting physically better results in emotional positivity, not the other way around.
Georgia - i see what you're saying. When I was having those good days (or weeks), I became completely 100% positive and confident that "this was it" - I was getting better every day.. no questioning, no doubting - I felt mentally clear, and i honestly think i let go of all the negative stuff and felt like I was getting better. But then I would suddenly crash,, and sink back into that achy, inflamed, exhausted state. (I must say, when I am feeling physically good/healthy, my mind becomes clear, calm, optimistic and content. But when I'm in a crashed state, I do ask all those questions and i feel hopeless; almost like i can't help it. ) Actually, immediately after recovering from covid, I thought i was fully better, and I remember feeling great for a couple/few weeks, and going back out and exercising vigorously (in a very positive, optimistic state of mind).. I didn't know "long covid" existed (and actually had no knowledge about chronic illnesses whatsoever),, and then the horrible "crashes" started, with the full array of symptoms. Again, I was in a VERY positive, optimistic (blissfully ignorant) state heading into that initial "crash." So definitely, nothing negative was swirling in my head when i first got struck with this (because literally NOTHING was swirling in my head, except: "ahh, back to my exercise routine! Yeahhh!!!" )
@@joejohnston9730 My experience was similar (without the exercise). I simply don’t understand this reasoning (in the video) when like a lot of long haulers I’m sure, I got “tricked” into believing that that was it, this time I was truly recovered, and this so many times, yet I fell for it every time. Well, until it became minor enough to just accept it. Given everything, including my circumstances, I have never been more positive over such a long period of time and in the face of this unusual hardship. And I didn’t think of LC more than I needed to.
One of my repeated thoughts throughout this ordeal has been 'must watch the latest from Gez'. Your videos have been a huge comfort, thank you. A hyper-sensitised nervous system has plagued my body since March 2020. Symptoms come in bouts that appear to flare up with each new wave(?). The latest bout has been especially bad. Luckily, with ivermectin treatment my symptoms are improving. I have been vaccinated.
UPDATE - I just wanted to provide an update to help give sufferers some hope. I'm 8 months on now and probably about 75% back to normal. I had the Moderna vaccine and started on 10mg of amitriptyline at night for the headaches about 4 months in which both seemed to help. Long Covid is a VERY real disease but the impact that it has on your mental health definitely doesn't help recovery. So don't be afraid to ask for help with your mental health too if you need it - there's absolutely no shame in it after going through Long Covid. Things will get better, you just need to focus on the small victories and don't get too upset by setbacks. Just focus on the progress that you're making and don't worry about the future. You will get there one day, I promise you
Thanks Jez. I think that i caught covid about the same time as you, and like you, finally feel that i have got my life back. Your remarks about the never ending questions in your head is spot on. Thanks to your utube, answering a lot of them my thoughts were calmer. Interesting the comments re balancing, i am now doing a lot of horse riding where you hav to be balanced its helped with my recovery. You take care.
Someone I care for very much got LC in March 2020, and by Christmas 2020, became what I can now class as fairly obsessive about their LC. He was supposed to visit family over the holidays but due to lockdown had to stay home. I wholeheartedly suggested he take a break anyway with the LC stuff, and he tried a little but a day or so after had fully immersed himself in figuring out how to recover from LC. It was a very long dark winter of discontent, but the last few months he has been focusing on other things and has been getting better. I have very mild LC symptoms and I can joke about them with him, which would have been completely impossible, say around March. Great point to not let Long Covid define who you are as a person, allow a little fun back in your life, and be around people again, not just locked away at home. Cheers to the people who have stuck with you from the beginning of your Long Hauler track, through good days and bad, as it is hard for them to see a person suffer so, and know there is nothing they can do about it. I felt really torn up inside, like I couldn't do anything right on top of being far away, and every day for a long while seemed to bring me nothing but bad news when I would check in. Finding something joyful is really important as a part of healing! Cheers Gez!
@@melanieolmsted6740 hi Melanie, my partner has been trying his best to help me through the long Covid long haul and I know I have made him feel like he can do nothing right to help, but he does just by being there for me, same as you are doing for your friend. On the dips it is difficult to raise a smile and not be impatient, just the post viral stuff doing its worst to make one miserable. Keep up your support because it really is so needed and appreciated. (But you probably knew all this already!) 😊
@@deniseh32033 Fortunately the person I know has a top class support system around him. Although he really was in his head over the winter and early spring. I'm glad he is doing better, and I really couldn't do very much to help. It was all him.
@@deniseh32033 Seriously Denise, I've been thinking about your comment, and what you said about patience, and not to minimize your illness, I totally validate your feelings, but I never doubted for a second that my friend would recover, or that you will recover, even in your darkest hour. See my Mum has Type 1 diabetes, and other than my Dad who passed away 30 years ago last Saturday (Father's Day,) and my Grandparents (my Mum's parents,) and especially me, I have been a caretaker for her since I could walk and talk. I was a caretaker for both my Grandparents, especially my Grandfather who I was the sole caretaker for until he passed 2 years ago, I have the learned to have deep patience, the patience of Job. My Mum's diabetes has been a chronic condition for hundreds of years, and her life expectancy was not very long when she was diagnosed 65 years ago. It still bothers me that 99% of people and paramedics don't know how to treat her when she goes into insulin shock, not even close friends and family. I have saved her life hundreds of times, given her shots since I was 10. I've learned how to see through people when they are sick, not anywhere near their best. You have to believe that things will be ok. Negativity never helps and stress plays with your hormones, even your metabolism, on top of your LC symptoms. My Grandpa was very wise, and he would say, "whatever you do, don't break your funny bone. Wise words for you and your partner." You will never forget your partner's love and compassion, but you will get better. You have been through a long haul literally Denise, when you are close to reclaiming yourself, allow yourself to grow and change as a person emotionally. Get a little sun, smiles when you can, and know how blessed you are to have your partner's love. It is really easy to be positive when life is going great, but someone who loves your soul and not just your body is a wonder thing. Tears and laughter often go together side by side. You will get better, but people with lifelong chronic disease will not. Until then why don't you and your partner learn acupuncture over the internet. (Just kidding, stick to the antihistamine diet, and do one good thing for yourself for you and your partner a day.) Try learning how to spell their name in sign language, and how to say thank you and I love you. Love is the thing you know!
Hi Gez, SO glad you're feeling steady recovery at the moment - your milestone of doing all those paramedic shifts sounds so heartening and encouraging! Woo hoo!!!! I really appreciated your update and also overview of your current, holistic treatment approach - including the little detail about being on aspirin for the blood thinning. A few things: 1. I did watch most of the TLC conference: thanks for sharing that resource. 2. Do you have a link or suggestion where I can find Paul Glynne's most current treatment suggestions / protocol? (I want to be able to reference that to advocate with my GP). 3. In addition to your list of questions that many of us struggled with over the past year and a bit, it also strikes me that we may have had more 'stressed/anxious systems' simply given the pandemic context: being stripped of many of our 'normal' social connections, habits, and engagement; having the background concern of re-infection; and it being harder to access healing environments and conditions with any ease. (I know that's arguably true for all who got Covid, not just those with long-Covid, but just conveying empathy for what a 'perfect storm' it's been for an anxious response).... Being on that 'front wave' has just been profoundly uncertain and unnerving (got sick at the exact same time as you). I am also happy to share that I'm definitely moving in restorative directions, too - and absolutely agree that working at all levels of: mind, body, brain (as well as social/ecological context) gives us the best support for healing and recovery! However, excited to consider adding anti-histamines, aspirin, and Ivermectin to the mix to see if I can offer further support to the physiological side of things. As always, with deep appreciation and gratitude for your service and work - Nicola
Another cracking video Gez! I am really starting to buy into the idea of positive thinking/stress minimisation on recovery. How do you disassociate taking supplements, performing mindfulness/breathing exercises etc from suffering with long covid? For me I have found it helpful to completely stop doing anything that reminds me I am unwell (except pacing else I am quickly reminded!) and just put it out of my mind. How do you do all the helpful things without it constantly reminding yourself that you are suffering?
@@PatrickBateman191 I’ve had CFS for 25 years and also got covid last March, I’m much sicker post covid than I was before - it’s basically cfs with long-covid on top. At no stage in my illness have I had a doctor take it seriously, I’ve been told all kinds of nonsensical bullshit by doctors to explain away the condition. Hopefully with all the research going into covid, mainstream medicine will be able to provide some effective treatments, but in my experience many doctors are wilfully ignorant of these kind of complex conditions, many are much more comfortable passing it off as anxiety or depression rather than acknowledge their glaring ignorance. It’s an incredibly tough situation to be in as a patient.
I used to work out at the gym 4 times a week: heavy cardiovascular workouts and strength training. Now, after having caught covid and almost dying, i cant even do 20 minutes with almost no resistance on my spin bike at home. I have difficulty doing a bench press with only the bar's weight. So discouraging 😢. Exercising was my life, now i walk slowly around my house and that is all i can do. Thank you again for the video.
@@RUNDMC1 You have a very compassionate soul. You probably know that compassion is the most advanced and the most highly evolved human emotion. Not everyone can have compassion.
Thanks a lot for the video Gez 🙏🏻. Your recovery gives hope to many. There will always be naysayers as you are probably finding out after posting this video. Would have loved a more elaborate/detailed video though on the things that aided ur recovery 🙂.
Strong respect to you training to become a paramedic. All your covid knowledge should stand you in good stead (do people even say that now). Good luck and best wishes for the future.
I know this is 'controversial' for some but for me, who has found mindfulness and emotional health techniques VITAL to my ongoing recovery, I am so relieved that someone like you, commited to the science of Long Covid has made this video!! People need to acknowledge this aspect of recovery. I am sick to the back teeth of hostility towards this aspect of health. Well done Gez, congrats on your recovery and now I hope for mine.
@@atticus149 Hello - it is! I quit my 'long covid' Twitter page yesterday because I was fed up of the misery, nay saying, negativity etc. Not necessarily from the LC community but more from certain pwME. It just got me down, so i deleted the account and app. I'll be sorry to not to see people's recovery stories, but overall its pretty toxic.
@@TS-rv4hf I can understand the reasons for u to leave Twitter. Having a long Covid Twitter account is similar to being in a Catch 22 situation. Will miss some of ur posts though. Hope the experiments u hv embarked on in the course of ur recovery work.
You are 100% on track. I had ME/CFS bad enough to be a wheelchair user for 17 years. Any attempt to exercise caused relapse, that is until the mind (anxiety and stress) were dealt with. I did a course called The Lightning Process which literally changed my life overnight. There are similar courses that probably do the same thing - essentially interrupting the stress hormone cycle (coming from your mindset).
Thankyou , your videos are like a virtual hug when no one else seems to understand what us long covid sufferers are going through . You offer us hope and positivity 🙂 the questions ... When will I get better ? Really resonated with me. Every single question you discussed is in my head all the time !!
I've been listening to some excellent podcasts about the link between mind and body/ pain ... I have tried to avoid social media forums as it made me more anxious and the illness felt like it was all consuming
@@RUNDMC1 six months in ...very up and down tbh but trying to bat away those questions that resurface . I'm focusing on what I can control , mindset , breath work, pilates and surrounding myself with empathic lovely people that understand how tough this is .
@@RUNDMC1 thankyou , you've given me more motivation to keep going ! This is just what we need right now. Having this illness has also reaffirmed my love of psychology/ the mind and I'm going to do an online masters in it hopefully , so I have more reason to get well
Hey! Im so glad your doing way better! I’m also a long hauler myself and I been dealing with it for 6 months now. Your videos been very helpful to me ! Can I ask what SSR helped with brain fog and neurological issues please? And what helps with body fatigue ! Thank you for everything you do for us! If it wasn’t for you I would think I would be like this forever 💔
You have nailed it here jez well done and as always fantastic insight. I know I have mentioned before it took me about a year to recover and a few small relapses even post that which lasted a couple of days when I pushed to much. I already suffered badly with anxiety pre long covid and ironically this actually equipped me to deal with it better as I had a lot of support systems in place for that I could lean on. Firstly I firmly believe everyone will recover in time from this horrible illness. I myself have now returned to playing 5aside, golf and coaching and I have been lucky in that I have managed to work also through it. I agree with all of your recommendations, acceptance is key and a believe you will recover. Diet and sleep are absolutely crucial, as well as recognising flareups and resting when u need too. Minimising stress and all of the supplementation in particular has aided my recovery. I will say also that alcohol is a definite out in my experience. My last remaining residual issues seems to be brain fog that lingers a bit. There is huge hope for everyone and never think about giving up it will change and you will improve 👏
I'm glad this worked for you, and while I would agree with much of what you said, I have to disagree with the ideas of not identifying with the condition and spending less time on LC social media. Speaking only for myself, LC social media has been part of what has supported me and helped me to understand my illness in a world of doctors that could not tell me what was going on with me. Also, if I did not identify with my illness, which I may have for the remainder of my life, so I may as well start to make peace with that now, then I may not have pushed to have my illness recognized by my employer as a disability worthy of being accommodated when they did not want to provide such. So, for me, at least, it is worth identifying as someone with LC so that I am fighting for what I deserve despite what others may say or think.
Very interesting video! About one month ago, I had received the Moderna vaccine and it improved my long covid and I thought that I was 95% recovered. But, I took some vacations a few days ago and things weren't great (problem with the car, ruined a day, kind-of too much road,...) and I had an unexpected relapse for a few days. It is getting better however. What I didn't knew was that I am fine if and only if I stay reasonable. I know that I will be fine if I stay withing my new limit and maybe some day, these limits won't be there anymore!
Hi Gez, another excellent video and it is so great to hear how well you are doing now ! This topic really resonated with me, and I too have seen some of my best and fastest improvements since starting the another brain training programme (ANS Rewire). I still have a way to go but I now feel like full recovery is so much closer. The mind is a powerful tool for sure. Have also found that cutting out sugar and bringing more fats and protein rather than too many carbs into my diet has been a game changer.
Hi all , with regards to ivermectin, is it worth taking now that I am six months in or is it more preferable to take initially during the.acute phaze ? ..I guess if the hypothesise could be that residual virus is lingering in the body , that maybe a course of ivermectin would help ? . Is the dosage based on your weight ? . I caught bilharzia travelling in Malawi and that anti viral medicine was taken based on weight . Have many of you have tried ivermectin ? . I am trying to figure out how you find the correct dosage when docs aren't prescribing it here in the UK
If you haven’t taken Ivermectin yet it’s worth giving it a whirl no matter how long it’s been, although yes it’s got clearer efficacy in the acute phase
My grandson 22 has had LC for almost a year - it just seemed to happen though he has a covind-19 perhaps twice - then he starts first year of college & went to Barcelona for a semester and bam that's when he got "hit" - thought it was food poisoning - going to skip well I have to skip a lot because I don't know the details; let me say he is my first grand & I took care of him for 3 years everyday & some nights (he's want to stay over when he got older), this is breaking my heart: - yes as see these videos I understand, and understood before the videos because I have Stiff Person Syndrome for 32 years and it's "low level" it started when I was mid 40's - now it's progressed his mental state -though from my son, Tariq (the grandson) is really mentally "burnt out"
Thanks Gez, needed this boost this morning. I've been trying to implement alot of the same but find it hard to stay on the path when having a dip. How are people managing to get there hands on Ivermectin in the UK?
You seem to pathologise very normal and understandable questions and reactions to illness. While it is good to remain positive and hopeful, ignoring so-called negative emotions is not helpful. It can lead to even greater anxiety, if you feel you have to put on a brave face despite feeling overwhelmed, sad, bewildered, sick to your bones. Social media, connecting with others can be helpful. It is about balance. Not one or the other. I think you missed that point. It is also ignoring the experience of people who've gone (years, decades) before, who've always been strong, hopeful and positive, but are still ill and disabled.
Yes I don’t say the word balance explicitly but that is what I’m essentially talking about. I’m also not saying that psychology alone is going to make you better - just that understanding you *might* need to make interventions there as well as elsewhere to give you the best possible chance of recovery.
@@RUNDMC1 Mweh. That's hardly backed up by science. And goes contrary to the experience of thousands of patients whose psychology was no problem, yet still remained ill. Or those who did have some work to do there, and also remained ill. The danger of this idea is, that it puts an undue burden on the patient for their own recovery. When they still don't, they get blamed. It can amount to gaslighting. I understand that's not your intention, truly. But I'm speaking from experience. It can backfire. Causing more stress instead of eliminating it.
Thank you so much for all your work. I’ve followed you since your first video and we’ve been on similar paths. I’m 16 months and im currently doing a brain neural retraining. I’m not recovered but I’m coping better. I hope we find a cure soon
RUN-DMC Thats amazing. Some people a year out and their panel is still not back to normal. I had mine done in april a month after my long hauler symptoms started my index was 5.1. After a month on his protocol it dropped down to .3. Per his words he said my immune system is back to normal. Hope my body starts healing now.
I really appreciate the videos. The roller coaster of emotions with relapses was really outlined beautifully in this video. Does anybody know any long haulers that have been able to say they are “100% healed“? Gez have you been able to return to running or jogging yet? Can’t wait to get back into the squat rack one day. I often wonder if I ever will.
Hi Scott - I’ve not tried running yet, I’m still just trying to get through my days and there’s too much else going on to add it on top! Hopefully will do soon though :)
@@RUNDMC1 walk/jogging 30-45 seconds of slow jogging, 1 minute of walking, repeat for 15 mins... over 4 weeks work up to 30 mins. monitor HR, keep it low.
i think it depends on how long they have been sick. i've seen many, many people who were only sick for a couple/few months say they are fine now, but there seems to be a lot of us from the "first wave" back in March/April 2020 that still haven't gotten better.
Am a long hauler, 18 months of a rollercoaster. Been through tons of different issues, Medical tests all clear. except high WBC and C Reactive protein. I suspect SIBO as I had oral thrush. Never had this in my life Latest is numbness of tongue and lips. Started a low histamine diet, and taking THE STACK supplements. Its been a week and already seeing a difference . I am abit hesitate to take the NIACIN due to the lips numbness... pls advise did anyone have this as well and how did you manage it?? Refuse to go to another doctor... will try to heal my body in a natural way.
Hi Gez, just catching up on your latest videos, this one is really great. Thanks for all your work. I fully believe in the mindbody connection and have a couple of questions! (1) You've been doing such great work on long covid, really helping people. Do you think that aspect of things and your success here (and maybe with the paramedic work too) has helped you take steps forward i your recovery? Finding a new sense of purpose almost? And in the same vein, (2) at the time covid hit you, were you in stressed state generally (film making looks fun but I'm sure can be stressful) and if so, do you think that contributed to your reaction to covid and the presence of the long-haul symptoms?
Hi Owen! 1) yes it has helped, but there have definitely been times I’ve overdone it 2) Yes, was massively physiologically stressed when I first caught COVID and I have no doubt that played a part in developing long covid
thank you for all your wonderful content, i don’t feel as hopeless with the empowerment from your videos! have you talked more about SSRIs in treating long covid somewhere else? how did escitalopram work for you?
Can you do a video on hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a treatment for fatigue. I've been suffering for 6 weeks. I can barely walk, stand, talk or watch tv. I have seen lots of people talk about using hbot but don't know if I should and am also claustrophobic.
1st infection November 2020 took 7-8 months to see some light. 2nd Covid infection March 2023 here I am in August 2023 with a severe sore throat. I tested negative for flu, strep and covid but the weird panic anxiety and gloom started to resurface for some odd reason. This stuff gets confusing. Could use some positive feedback, anyone ??
CBT can help people understand and deal with the debilitations of LC and ME/CFS, but it certainly isn't going to help people recover fully. I hate that most doctors are saying to try meditation and CBT - talk about ignorant.
Same thought, same comment. There's completely no scientific basis to it. In fact, it has been disproven for CFS/ME. Imho, holistic treatment harms people in so far that some doctors make their patients believe that all they need is CBT, GET, or some sugar pills. GET has shown to enhance ME, and according to Dr. Patterson, it also shows to enhance LHS mechanistically. CBT can trigger a similar light headedness and naivity. The disease will never disappear just like that, only by belief. We can subconsciously ignore it and this can make us believe that we aren't sick, so we might feel healthy, although it only needs a certain level of exertion and it's all back in the presence, possibly worse than before because we didn't pace properly. This is why I think that pacing therapy is the only CBT that actually makes sense.
After several months of chronic fatigue, I am finally able to exercise without the fear of feeling wiped out the next day. I had 5 acupuncture sessions and I am now living again, rather than just existing. It worked for me, and it may work for you guys, it's worth a try!
Great to hear and we are on similar path 17+ months but use ortho bionomy body work and red light therapy for mitochondria. However had a breakthrough flair with two major life stressors within one week of one another recently. But managing it faster than earlier setbacks thankfully. Considering Dr Patterson's findings may do a course of maraviroc. But what I really am pondering is I have yet to consider vaccinating due to previous anaphylaxis MCAS/EDS/POTS and history of blood clot. Assuming you being in Paramedic training you received a vaccine Gez? If so how did you manage side effects, if any? Thanks again for all your work from this Kool Been over in New Jersey, USA.
Hi Gez, this video was so motivating! I didnt manage to watch the TLC conference and was hoping a recording would be released. Can you provide any bullet points re what doseage of aspirin is recommended and whether SSRI's are purely for the low mood side of things or also as anti-inflammatories? What are your thoughts on Dr Patterson recommending statins?
Can’t comment on the statins but SSRIs help some parts of the dysautonomic puzzle. Re aspirin dosage, personally I’m on 300mg but if you don’t want to go that high you could go for the 70mgs
Cheers to us both feeling a bit better! What are your thoughts on the use of Prednisone? Like you said, it is a feedback loop that needs interruption. And yes, I don't talk about being ill anymore, for my own sake. By the way, to lift your ego a touch more, I do have a covid crush on you! You are cute to look at and maybe that is why I'm feeling better. Thank you for using your artistry, curiosity, and tenacity to help us navigate the viral labyrinth towards homeostasis. Onwards and Upwards - CC
Hi Gez, would you recommend courses of ivermectin/do you feel they contributed to your recovery? If so, would you be able to share a link to any advice you used for how much to take etc? Want to be sure to get it right!
I'm finding light in your channel because I'm experiencing many long term effects. I'm seriously getting pissed because physicians chalk it up to Anxiety only
So pleased you're feeling better! You seem very grounded in the video. I'm also doing the Gupta program and adapting it to my needs. This approach is 100% the right one. I was also a marathon runner and have been able to do some cycling again of late. Hope you're able to exercise properly again soon!
Gez, how are you doing now? ARE YOU RUNNING AGAIN? I thought I was done with it especially since I received the vaccine. It has been two months of continual physical improvement to the point that I was walking about 2 hours daily for about 3 weeks and moving onto more aerobic physical challenges--mountain biking for about 40min, doing sprint swims, stationary biking, jogging, etc.. Well. its not over---one day I ended up with 150/90 bp and felt really bad (no tachycardia, just high blood pressure). My bp was normally running 115/70 for quite a long time and I had not experienced this since November of last year. It took two days and I recovered well enough to start walking for 45min daily, but then....bam...another high bp and this time (for my first time) with tachycardia while sleeping. oh BTW...I had discontinued all meds for about 2-3 months before getting this pop. This is just to let you know---its not over. WIll I get back to the condition I was---that is what I am trying to achieve. We will see. I now have trigger points that I look at---HR over 150 while exercising is too much, heat is too much---if you're sweating, its time to be careful.
I have had LC for well over a year. The NHS is not treating me for it, but, they have done many many tests and think I have Thyroid Cancer. I DON'T. I'm waiting for an Iodine 123 scan but I have an operation booked to remove my thyroid. Has anyone else had this 'crossover' issue ?
thank you, definitely helps that somebody else identifies with my condition after covid. after 8mos finally experiencing more relief. symptoms are abating, and yes i envy the healthy or those asymptomatic but accepted the world as it is right now. your videos have helped me understand the science of virology and its effects. thank you so much. my battlecry!! onward to recovery!! @-@
I had long Covid for 14 months and thought it would never leave me.I was so short of breath.and one week,last month, my symptoms literally disappeared. I think this is so important to let people know because some people are committing suicide at their 12 month mark, thinking it will never leave, but if they only hang in there a little longer, they may have my experience.I had a pulmonary appointment yesterday and now breathe better than an average woman my age they tell me.Two months ago I would have sworn I had COPD.Hang in there.I know the anxiety and depression that accompany your symptoms are difficult-I had anxiety from the sever shortness of breath I had for 14 months...
That’s amazing 😁 I’m pleased for you 😁👍
Thank you 🙏🏻 thank you for the encouragement. I am beginning to be very worried and scared. 2 months and no improvement at all.
Brilliant news
What were you taking ?
In september i have 12 months of different symptoms but i have faith ....
I've been having a mental meltdown the last few days, tired of treading water and grabbing for something to hold on to. Your presentation is a reaching hand. Thank you!
It’s a pleasure - best of luck with your recovery Frank
Get well soon mate
I totally agree that attending to breaking that loop and resetting the nervous system is critical (alongside the various supplements and pacing.) Breathwork and meditation are extremely powerful tools. The mind/body connection is fundamental yet is often overlooked - body and brain treated as separate. Strange really. A train that was simply carriages with no engine and a cognitively balanced driver is never going to go anywhere. We are exactly the same. Vagus nerve reset - look it up on UA-cam - is powerful and very good and super simple. Insight Timer app offers lots of free meditations. For breathwork you can start using these classic two bells - breathe in fully stomach to shoulders as it were on bell one, breath out on bell two and so on. Start with just a few minutes as if you have some SOB it can take time to build up. www.breathyoga.org/rfb
Eat some horseradish and smell it. It helps to breathe better.
you cant clear dead virus debris out of your system,thats whats keeping you sick,low atp levels is the problem,if you dont know what causes low atp levels its going to be very difficult to recover,long covid is easily healed in ten days
I had dehabilitating long covid symptoms from December 2020-May 2021. I am 22 years old and have just started to feel better over the last few weeks. It was the scariest and hardest time of my life. My blood pressure was in the 170’s and I had to start taking tons of meds, I could barely get through school, go on walks, and some days even get out of bed. I was unable to exercise at all or it made my symptoms much worse. I had terrible headaches and my blood pressure would get extremely high if I exerted too much in a day. Sometimes exerting too much was just standing for too long. It is so nice to be better and it really made me grateful for the life I was given by God. When you are so sick for months with no end in sight, it really makes you realize just how vulnerable we are. To all of you still struggling, you will get through it. It took me months but eventually I got back to normal out of nowhere. Getting sunlight, eating more vegetables, and going on walks have helped me a lot. Hope this helps some of you with the mental aspect of recovery. It was the hardest part for me not knowing if the symptoms would ever go away.
Wow, so scary. Because the whole world of course does not know if your symptoms will go away. But you're doing the things that heal, and eventually the strength of youth will help you recover. It sounds similar to ME and other chronic conditions, where being active makes it worse. Maybe the answer lies there?
What I have left is Brain Fog, ear fullness, and mental fatigue which is basically brain fog.
Hey Cole, glad ur better. So ur saying out of the blue u started getting better. Did u have depression and axiety, weird brain stuff. Its like ur chemicals in brain get messed up. What kinds of medicines did u take besides bp meds, if u dont mind saying
@@paulpersons799I’ve had these symptoms, they still come around. How are your symptoms and how long did it take to see some positive light?
@brotherj3482 hey there brotherj3482 , I'm so so so much better , I'm 30 months into long covid now. It's kinds hard to say but after like 28 months I really started noticing my energy pick up and less relapses if u know what I mean. Hang in there, it's a super slow recovery but I'm shure u will as well
Yesterday was one of my darkest days. Stuck thinking Covid will affect me forever. I woke up to this video and it lifted me up like nothing else has. Thank you so much for providing some hope that this WILL end. 🙏🏻
Best of luck Stuart!
Ditto I've just watched it again toddy as I've had a big relapse .
My mom is like 95 percent recoved after 7 months
@@RUNDMC1 hey so are u taking ssri in ur recovery
Update Stuart?
Gez you’ve been the one ray of hope throughout my Long Covid experience and have inspired me to get out of a dark hole and start sharing my own experiences and tips with others too.
I can’t thank you enough for the work you have done - you genuinely have changed my life.
Hey Harry, what a lovely comment. So glad to have been able to help :)
Please look up Dr Tina Peers she is a Long covid specialist and treats the condition with supplements and medication that is also for people with Mast Cell Activation disorder. This treatment really works I suffer with Mcas and it has helped me enormously.
There are podcasts by her that you can listen to, I wish you ‘well’
@@cherylwilliams4245 there's no such thing as a long covid specialist. Tina Peers is, at best, a specialist in her area of interest. There's zero evidence available yet to prove a link between MCAS and Long Covid, and if or when there is, it'll only apply to a small percentage of sufferers.
@@ramsaymeldrum3964 She is a doctor who researches and treats symptoms of long covid . Peolple who listen to her you tube channel and podcasts can make their own judgement whether her advice is worth a try.
The video is slightly more balanced than it might initially have seemed based on the title - particularly highlighting and acknowledging the importance of time on recovery was good. However I think the impact of time on mental well-being is also important. Developing any long term or chronic illness is similar to a bereavement and the cycle of grief is something that has been equated to the loss of previous health status. People each need different amounts of time to work through and back and forth between denial, anger, bargaining, acceptance etc and this is a normal human response.
I certainly think talking to others can be helpful - whether that is peers or professionals but we still need time to process these normal emotions. Are some of the things we think unhelpful - yes. Do some of them hinder recovery - also yes. Changing thoughts is not always about denying its truth but if reducing the negative impact of believing that.
One example I have used in the past working with people with fatigue is this:
Unhelpful thought - I didn’t do anything all weekend = I’m lazy.
Subsequent action - pushing self too hard to disprove this. Or alternatively giving in to the lazy label and not trying to do anything.
Leads to negative emotions, frustration, sadness etc.
Challenge the thought.
Is it that I’m lazy or is it that the previous week was so busy I have simply run out of energy this weekend. Does my belief that I am lazy come from my fear of what other people see when they don’t know how I feel etc?
Challenging the thought lessens the impact which then leads to healthier behaviours.
Resulting behaviour. I’m going to plan and pace my week better so that when the weekend comes I can do the things I enjoy.
This is how CBT approaches can be used beneficially in chronic illness.
As an occupational therapist I recognise the need to create a connection between your old patterns of doing and balancing this alongside current strengths and limitations which is part of what you describe here. In fact you connected your old occupation of filmmaking to learning and sharing information about LC (in effect your own Occupational Therapy). You will have adapted the way you did that, given yourself more time etc but still got that positive feedback loop from that occupation.
The exercise example - I know that there is a lot of caution attached to exercise (and rightly so where PEM/PESE exists) however if someone’s identity is or has been intrinsically linked to the ability to exercise, managing energy to allow participation in exercise may be worth it for them. Some people would rather get support with household tasks to allow them that energy to pace and return to exercise slowly. They may change the type of exercise or the duration etc.
Someone in the UA-cam comments discussed finances, and the ability to pay or seek out support is hugely influential in recovery and not everyone can afford this. Unfortunately our health care systems have not been structured or resourced in a way to help us. Either with assessment or treatment. We can therefore not blame people for seeking support anywhere or anyway they can.
The risk of generalising results/experiences to entire populations can have hugely negative implications. What works for you might not work for me and vice versa. People have different lives, responsibilities, underlying health conditions, personality types and all of this impacts on recovery. We can not simply say - because you spent too much time thinking about being ill that’s why you are ill. We can say because you were not given support to think about how to reframe and refocus your life based on your current experience that is why you are ill. Because you were not believed that forced you to prove that you are ill. The medical gaslighting and trauma of this impacted on your recovery.
Within health and social care, medicine, psychology etc the importance of understanding the individual and their own context is vital. I have huge advantages over another women who has three children in terms of being able to carve out time for myself however I am single and self employed so if I don’t work I have no money. That brings its own stressors.
Take the issue re labelling or identifying with the LC diagnosis or even identifying as disabled. Just because you accept that label or that becomes part of how you identify does not mean that is your entire experience. Would you call out people that have a Twitter handle - gardenerofdaisies as limiting their experience to just gardening daisies and then blame them for not reading and knitting etc as well? How do you not know that they have other accounts that focus on other aspects of their experience. Social media account names are often designed to connect with others to share experience. I have a personal and a business account, and an account to represent groups I belong to for example. On each of them I talk about more than just that topic but if people want to know specifically more about OT they follow my business accounts. If they want more book recommendations and dog pictures they follow my personal one. It is a little disingenuous to judge someone on the front they present on social media. Some people additional tweet separately under a LC identity for advocacy reasons or because they need to remain anonymous.
Connecting with Long Covid social media has been a hugely important method of gaining information, advocacy etc. As in all aspects of life we need to look at the information we come across critically. What position is someone coming from? What is their aim with this tweet, blog post, video. Etc. Some people have more skills of critical analysis than others but we are all human and can easily be led astray by emotions and the desire to go back to normal. The important thing is being able to identify when social media/peer support can help and when it can hinder. It is not a straightforward it’s good or it’s bad thing.
You have done a lot of good with your work. Now things are looking brighter please exercise caution about applying your reality to everyone else. This is quite an ableist thing to do and that is why people are being criticised for sharing their views because they are basically saying. Well I got better so why can’t you?
That was longer and more rambling than I intended but I just wanted to share another viewpoint.
That’s ok - thank you for the great and reasoned, helpful comment!
I’m so happy to hear you’re feeling better! Your videos have helped me immensely and this one especially. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
It’s a pleasure Greg!
I really appreciated this video. I've been following you and watching your videos for some time. This video resonates with my experience a lot too; like you I also first got sick mid-march.
One thing that I found immensely helpful for the "mind" side of things, was the podcast "Tell Me About Your Pain". Although that podcast is primarily about back pain, I found I was able to apply many of the same ideas in it to my long COVID recovery.
One of the trickiest things that you don't really touch on, but was a major issue for me, is that, especially early on in my recovery, my breathing was severely disrupted. Normally, slow, deep breathing, and meditation and movement arts that incorporate such breathing, are the #1 thing I turn to for dialing down nervous system unrest and anxiety. But my breathing was both disrupted and often painful. It was harder to breathe deeply, harder to breathe slower, and my deep breathing would sometimes set off pain, and there were times when the whole breathing apparatus just hurt no matter what I did. This made it very hard to tap into this method for relaxation.
I saw a therapist about this and between that, online reading, and the pain podcast, I settled on the practice of, when it was unpleasant to focus on my breathing, instead finding other sensations in my body to bring my attention to, and also sensations in my physical environment that I found pleasing. When I was too unwell to exercise, I would look out the window and watch clouds, or listen to bird songs out the window. As I got better, I would go sit outside, and then as I got even better, I would go on long, slow walks, listening to birds and birdwatching and counting and recording birds. In terms of my body, in spite of the fact that COVID affected many different body systems, I also found that there were a lot of things that were actually not at all disrupted by COVID. Unlike many people with LC, my GI tract worked pretty well. My skin has stayed pretty nice and soft, with no irritation, through this whole thing. Although my chest muscles were all messed up, my legs felt pretty good, especially as I started walking again. Focusing on the things in my body that felt good helped provide me with something to focus on in mindfulness meditation, when I couldn't focus on breathing.
Now I'm recovered enough that I can do breathing exercises just fine, and the pain is usually absent and when not absent, mild enough that the meditation itself usually dials it down.
I also found it really important to emphasize my own inner strength. I have overcome a lot of challenges in life. It was hard for me to adjust to the long time-scale of the COVID recovery, but once I realized that it was going to be a much longer, tougher process than initially depicted in the media, I was determined to do it and to do it well. Instead of focusing on those days when I couldn't do this or couldn't do that, I focused on what I *could* do and what I *did* do. That one day early in the recovery, I not only biked, I biked up a hill and my lungs and my cardiovascular system worked well enough that I not only did it, but felt okay afterwards. I would remember that moment for weeks and weeks and I kept reminding myself: "I got there once, I will get there again." I remember one day I was out on a walk and my breathing was restricted and my HR went up and I was having trouble and I almost turned back, but then I focused on that one moment and I was like: "I got up that hill before on my bike...this is easier, I can do it." and I found my anxiety left my mind and body and although it didn't make my breathing perfect, it made it BETTER, and it made it better enough that I was able to finish the full length of my walk and feel good when I got back.
That was kind-of a turning point to me, when I realized just how mental this thing was, that I couldn't let myself restrict things out of fear.
I also stopped saying "I can't do this." and started problem solving, instead making it: "How?" I would go shopping, and I knew I was too unwell to take everything up but I also knew that I did well with longer-duration, lower-intensity exercise, so I just took the bags up the stairs one-by-one.
I started running with energy when I had it. Instead of focusing on the times I had no energy to cook, I would say, hey, right now, I have energy to cook, so why don't I just cook until I run out of energy? And I'd end up doing food prep for 3-4 days worth of food and then the next day, if I ended up being totally beat, it didn't matter, cause I had all this wonderful food I had already made up. And if I felt good on that day, then bonus...I could turn to doing something else. I started getting more work done.
Early on I would have terrible shortness of breath if I ate too many carbs, so I just would focus on eating fish and cheese and nuts and other things that seemed not to cause trouble for me. I'd have these little tiny fish and eat them one at a time and have a friend coach me on the phone. I wouldn't beat myself up for not being able to eat more, but instead I'd try to celebrate every amount I was able to eat without developing shortness of breath. Later as I got better I would make dumplings and it was a celebration because I actually not only had the energy to fry the dumplings in a pan but I was able to eat them without problems as they had some carbs in them.
I tried to focus not on what I had lost, but on what I was regaining, and that helped me keep going.
I am still having new victories. The other day I drank two beers and not only felt fine in the moment, I felt fine the next day too. I am able to do pushups again and I don't feel terrible the next day. I can eat a really big meal now too! And now I'm really motivated in my work and some days I'm able to concentrate 100% as well as I used to be able to (which was never perfectly all the time haha) and it's fantastic. I'm still not 100% recovered but...I'm living my life again and it's really great, and focusing on how great it is has been instrumental in me continuing to feel better!
Thanks for the fantastic comment Alex!
Your comment in pure inspiration all the way through! I will try to adopt your positive way of thinking!
Thank you so much for sharing such a detailes account of your experience and success! It is great to read amd is very helpful for those who are just starting the journey. Congrats on yoir recovery!
I get anxiety and depression and it is horrendous I can’t explain it. I’m on 100mg sertraline per day and have applied for talking therapy via the nhs , may go private . Trying to eat better and plan to go to gym for 5-10 mins doing something very light . Seven months long Covid so far. Seem to be improving every couple of months. It is scary . If you are freaking out now and then AND have the energy try to keep active or busy. Talk to people if you can, meet family and friends if you can. Do things if you can . Any tips from anyone would be welcome 🙏.
Your eyes look less tired I’m happy for you. You can tell someone really is long hauling by the tiredness in their eyes and dark circles. Yours seem to be clearing up!! Keep us posted but take a break if it helps to distance yourself from it all.
Thank you Cade!
i watch a lot of UA-cam videos vs. other streaming services. I tend to look forward to watching channels where the person is genuinely positive and looking forward to life. yes, content is important, but even though there are many people to choose from for each content category, certain people stick out. you are one of them. you find a way to explain things clearly without sounding condescending. so thank you for making these videos and keeping people updated on how you are doing.
I 100% agree. Well done. I am doing pacing, visualisation, breathing, positive self-talk, yoga nidra, meditation, doing some gardening (a new activity for me), as well as antihistamines, NSAIDS, vitamins and supplements, nightly Epsom salt baths. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel now too 👍🏻. We’ve got this. ❤️
(Oh and congrats on your paramedic training)
Thank you - I hope you recover quickly and fully too!
Update mum?
@@TheBushRanger. I am fully recovered! I went back to work once I was physically, but not fully cognitively, better. I had a slow phased return over 3 months, to get my brain working again. I walk my dog every day and do weight training twice a week. I didn’t go back to running because I found that I didn’t miss it. I still do yoga nidra most day, because it makes me feel good. My only meds are vitamins, and one cetirizine per day for hayfever. My diet is good, but doesn’t need to be totally perfect. I’m feeling good 👍🏻. How are you?
@@boxerdogmum583 congrats! That’s awesome
@@boxerdogmum583 I’m struggling with a concussion and covid. I have joint pain and neuro issues. Trying to claw my way back but this could be the end of me. Only 28. Thanks
Wonderful video that sums everything up. And I am thrilled to hear that you are recovering. Your recovery process has been very similar to mine. And now may I throw out some unsolicited advice from a grandmother who used to work in media? Being an EMT is certainly a noble profession. and you’ll help lots of individuals. But with your work here, you are helping huge numbers of people. It is not for nothing that some of your videos get 1 million views. You have a personal style and delivery that is unique, warm,, and inspiring. You are extremely articulate and empathic. When it comes to changing careers, I hope you will think big!
Hi Lynn. Thank you for the lovely message. You may or may not be surprised to hear that my thinking has come round to be very closely aligned to yours 🤣 The paramedic profession and the NHS generally is not one that values independent thought and big ideas. Both of which are rather important to me.
@@RUNDMC1 Precisely. I see great things ahead for you.
Your channel has been a bright beacon during my journey as a long haul COVID-19 survivor. Like you, I considered myself a fit person before the infection. Your example of being open and investigative during your journey has inspired me with sharing my journey on Reddit and with the Facebook groups, encouraging others who are in the dark and frightened. Countless numbers of times I have recommended the RUN-DMC channel.
About 98% recovered, but talking about it, what worked and didn't work, and being brutally honest about my emotional state has helped others who are going through it.
So good to hear you’ve recovered that well - I’m not at 98% yet!!
Aspirin is so interesting, because for me, it cleared out my breathing from unbearable to being able to at least move around slowly. And every time I stop eating it, it takes a few days, and then I get a massive episode, with chest pain, disorientation, numbing of my arm and side, and breathing just crashes. And then when I start taking it again, I stay stable. After 4 times of trying to stop, and crashing each time, I'm now not going to stop until I know I am completely 100% in the clear, but it would be interesting to know why.
I finally got my first dose though(Sweden is a bit slow, and didn't prioritise risk groups in my area, so June 16th was my first), and I might be wrong, but I sort of feel a bit more stable. So who knows, maybe I can stop eating Aspirin soon!
Best of luck with your recovery Kat!
Aspirin used to help my ME too. Interesting
@@RUNDMC1 what dose of aspirin is recommended please? Can I also ask if SSRI's are recommended for their anti-inflammatory response as well as anti-depressents?
Well done Gez - you've hit the nail on the head! I'm also at 14+ months and really turned a corner recently. Over the last 6 months I've been doing: diet, supplements, yoga, yoga nidra & cranial osteopath and all helped. But in last 2 months I've really focused on 'stress' - EFT has been helpful, and I've recently started the Individual Psychology Programme with the Optimum Health Clinic (OHC), which has really accelerated my recovery in the last month - back working, climbed a fell in the Lake District, socialising and generally feeling good. So great to hear and see you're doing so much better. You've been a fantastic advocate for our cause and I wish you all the best in your continued recovery my friend :)
Forgot to add... such a shame I've been able to do this because I'm financially able to. To date the only thing the NHS has offered me is anti-depressants. I really hope this stuff becomes available to all/on the NHS (but having had an autoimmune disease for 10 years and similar treatment, I doubt it). What I would say to people who can't afford private alternative treatment is there is a lot available out there for free you can do to help your self e.g. yoga (See Suzy Bolt yoga on Facebook and UA-cam), Stasis Breathing Covid Recovery Programme, mindfulness, even Gupta and OHC offer some stuff for free.
Thank you Cyra - best of luck with your recovery too!
You have no idea how much you help me. You are really talented in making these videos. I know of no one who makes high-calibre videos like you. Please continue for us, even if you get better, don't forget us 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Of course not - glad to be of some help Max!
Genuine thanks Gez you have helped me through this process immeasurably. I think that the mental challenge is at least as bad as the physical symptoms for me. Glad to see things are looking up for you - I hope to be joining you sooner rather than later. And welcome to the NHS, I work in CT/MRI. Paramedics are hardcore.
Yes - the I agree. The mental stuff is at least as hard as the physical side of things
I have had Covid 440 days today with no medical insurance. I am 71, incredibly active, very young looks, actions and thought processes. Am Pastor of church and 2 Mission Houses in Iowa. 291days ago all properties were devastated by “worst inland hurricane in US history”. You can do this. Listen 👂 to this program. I woke up in a panic an hour ago as I have not been able to handle many of my responsibilities. Kick it out-those thoughts. No one understands around us. We have to tell others (who won’t mock us) as we journey, mostly alone. I have eliminated the histamine and histamine foods and the rash and constant itching is mostly gone!!! We will fight to get well. Great things are ahead. It’s much better w/ God.
You missed out an important factor: financial resources. I have seen this time and time again; recovery stories from those who have the ability and financial stability to leave work, and to pay for different treatments. Stuff like cranial osteopathy and help with psychology is out of reach of most.
I'm glad you included 'Time' as a factor. We should not overlook the fact that most people will recover with time, through a natural process.
The other issue is that with so many interventions, it becomes impossible to disentangle the effect of any particular intervention.
How did you arrive at the decision to take an SSRI? And, given the point I made above, can you say whether you think it helped or not?
My decision to take the SSRI was based on low mood. It helped!
@@RUNDMC1 Thanks for the response. One further question-how did you settle on escitalopram? Or was it simply GP preference?
@@RUNDMC1 which ssri do you use? I tried fluvoxamine. The side effects were sooo tough I had to stop after 10 days.
@@Wds__99 Many struggle with Fluvoxamine as highly serotinergic - it may have superior anti-inflam properties. We often recommend starting at just 10mg but this needs a special compounded script.
People respond differently to SSRI's - many tolerate escitalopram but some makes nauseas and anxious. Old school prozac seems to be a good choice well tolerated in covid too. (FYI I have MCRPsych background so qualified to answer
@@fabulousdoc thanks for that dr. I was taking 50 mg once per day. I’m thinking of Zoloft next because I tolerated that in the past. But I don’t know if it has the same anti inflammatory properties, which I’m really after for Covid.
I am amazed to learn that you are not a professional medical scientist. I have been suffering from this for 17 months now (since a fairly mild infection in February 2020) and I have found your videos so, so, so helpful! Thanks so much.
Glad you are feeling better! You have been suffering for a very long time with long covid. I too am finally feeling a bit better although I am still having problems with fatigue. You have not only helped me with my long covid , but have given me hope to beat it. Kindest regards.✨
Thank you Cindy!
Hello, i am glad that you are feeling much better . As a psychiatrist i can say that there is very often ( and wecan understand this) , a psychological effect with last longing deasease and even mental health issues such as AnXiety, depression , addictiion suicidal crisis etc . Fantastic job you did! .Have a nice WE .Pascale from France
Thank you Gez for posting your TLC 😄 presentation here! Your generosity continues... 💖
I like your lists of thoughts and questions very much. I definitely relate, and think they will help a lot of people!
I also appreciate your lists of physical support you continue to follow. It is indeed helpful to remember how we are a work in progress and a story still writing itself...
Very cool to see that acupuncture and cranial adjustments are helping, as I had expected they might!
Postcard from my version of this journey, circa right now 😄:
" Things that are working -
* pushing back against all sources of excess stress (including public fear flavours-of-the-week!)
* pacing
* anti-inflammatory diet (ketogenic with intermittent fasting, for now)
* sunshine & sea air
(Vit D & Vit Sea!) 🌞🌊⛱️
* taking steps towards dreams deferred "
Enjoy your EMT training! You are in good company there! 💝💝💝
Thanks Laura, your continued support is very much appreciated!
Gez, I’m so happy to hear that you’re starting to turn the corner! I’m only 7 months out but all your videos have made my journey much easier! Are you planning to begin phasing out all supplements and pharmaceuticals soon or do you think you’ll stick with them a while longer?
I’ll stick with them until I feel that I’m PEM-resistant. Not there yet!
@@RUNDMC1 Gez where do you get your ivermectin from? I found All day Chemist who say they ship to the UK but cautious to order without a recommendation x
Patricia Bryant plenty of people have used Alldaychemist with no problems!
@@RUNDMC1 Thanks so much Gez - how are u doing?
I’m a veteran from 16/3/20 so feel like we have been on the same journey. Good to see you looking better, I’m also beginning to see an improvement - just hope it’s not another false dawn. Thanks for all the hours you’ve spent sharing the information you’ve unraveled.
This is 100% me! I haven't splashed out on the therapies mentioned or indeed had any of the medication but I've found my own equivalents.
Researching and chatting to folk on forums about how to manage LC has been so so helpful but can also be incredibly stressful. I watched a long covid seminar a couple of months ago and was so upset by it I realised that I was stressing myself out rather than helping myself.
I'm so lucky to have been able to visit my parents recently and been looked after and distracted. I'm sure it's played a huge part in breaking the cycle of negative thoughts.
I think the brain fog and fatigue can make it feel impossible to get out of the rut.
I'm sure there will be hurdles yet but I haven't consistently felt this good in 15 months. So pleased to hear of Gez and others on the same path!
Very glad to hear you’ve managed to get on top of it E!
So beautiful presentation… This video made me to be touched and happy at the same time. Long hauling for over 4 months. You have been one of my main sources of information and most of your advices were extremely helpful. At one point I thought I was recovered, after I started Niacin. But no, of course. Anxiety and heart palpitations returned after some time, other symtoms have been somehow managable. But I started to meditate and considering yoga. Positive approach is the key. Even though it’s a rollercoaster (that none of me around understand), we will all get well one day!
I saw every video of yours. Some several times. Thank you for your immensely important research and work! Greetings from Prague, Czech rep.
I’m so pleased you’re doing so much better. Your videos have been really useful in my own journey towards recovery. Some more relatable to my situation than others.I was probably a little bit ahead of the game by already practicing yoga for breathing, meditation, relaxation and balance , pre-covid. Who knew this would be an advantage in a viral illness!
Anyway thank you for your research and information. Take care 😃
Thank you Penny! Glad to hear you’re recovering too :)
Woo hoo🎉 so happy to hear you are doing better both for yourself and also for all of us to keep trying! I have had some better days lately and it just feels wonderful when you feel human again:)
It really does, doesn’t it Diana?!
I got sick early last March 2020 too. I heard you speak at the amazing TLC conference this past weekend. Your talk brought tears to my eyes as you described exactly what’s been going on in my head. A week ago, I actually had some really dark thoughts about not wanting to continue to live like this. I’ve never experienced anything like that before. You gave me a lot of hope that I can get out of this dark feedback loop I am stuck in.
Last week I just started to see an integrative medicine practitioner who is suggesting a lot of the things that said are helping you. I’m feeling hopeful for the first time in a really long time.
Thank you so much for all that you’ve been doing to help us understand the long hauler condition.
PS- I also watched your interview with Tommy Woods. I just bought some new piano music, I’ve been learning to use a new graphics program (for fun, not work) and I’m going to try Duolingo like you mentioned. All things I can do to help my brain.
Thanks for the lovely comment Melanie. Sorry you’ve been struggling so much but there really is hope. Best of luck to you and with your recovery.
You are absolutely true, Gez! This video made me realize that letting go this illness is kind of painfull... It seems crazy, but I think it's because I really identified me with this, too. So true!!! I'm happy you're ok and I am certain that we all are going to be some day. Stay healthy and good luck with your new job!
Thank you Anamaria! Hope you recovery quickly :)
This is one of your best videos Mr. Gez! Especially because you’ve announced you're so much closer to full recovery! Well Done Sir! You’re certainly one dynamic dude and should be eligible for some kind of UA-cam award or something for going above and beyond helping us all out so much with these videos… Really Glad you’re doing well. I believe my recovery is improving too… Thanks once again for all the hard work you put in. (Mike from Jersey, US)
Thank you Mike! So glad to hear you’re doing better too 👍
A local woman who was a Long Hauler committed suicide recently, her husband appeared on CNN. It is a soul crushing illness since we still can't feel like ourselves even with symptom suppression doing it's work and that's where we fail to understand how inflammation can cause anxiety, depression, and yes....thoughts of turning the lights out on that despair. Glad you're doing better, Gez. You've been tireless in your pursuit of truth, I can never thank you enough. Got contact info (?) we're working on an Integrative Medicine protocol here that doesn't require Rx meds & would love to share info when we get further down the road....
Hi Victoria. Thanks for the message. You can email me at dm20abn@herts.ac.uk
@@RUNDMC1 Got it thanks so much. :-)
I appreciate your videos! My 12-year-old son had a “mystery virus” this past November that triggered dysautonomia and a new daily persistent headache. He never got a positive covid test, but so much of what you have been posting has been helpful to us. As his primary caregiver, I have especially benefited from this presentation because I have been so consumed by researching to help him heal. We have made big strides, but I think the next step to healing may be letting go and living life! My son is doing much better at this than I am, even with his non-stop headache!
Sorry to hear about your son but I’m glad that he is at least improving.
It doesn't necessarily have to be Covid. Gamma Herpes virus and HHV infections can trigger a very similar or even the same condition, called ME/CFS. They all share the association with MCAS and vasodilation of blood vessels in the brain area, thereby causing headache.
@@matfax yes, I agree. I am grateful for the research going into long covid because it can only benefit others who are suffering in similar ways from other viruses. I have had to be an advocate for my son because no one really knew what was going on. I was the one who had to suggest melatonin because he wasn’t sleeping. I was the one who noticed his heart rate issues and how nothing helped him feel better except a Gatorade. I feel like everything had to come from me, when it should have been from the doctor. It seems like there should be a set of tests and a clearer protocol for what to do when someone doesn’t seem to be recovering from a virus.
@@aundreacarrillo4345 I feel your situation. You aren't alone with this. It has been like this for ages for ME patients, especially for their caring relatives. Chronic diseases hit the closest relatives the worst, even worse than the patients themselves, I mean mentally. It's not untypical that relatives get burn out or chronic stress related health issues themselves because there's no care and they are left alone. Fortunately, there seems to be a shift in the perception in the medical community now, slowly but steadily. For ages, ME has been stigmatised as a psychosomatic disease in order to deny patients any kind of treatment, driven by insurance lobby groups and their disinformation funding. When a medical practicioner brings up this card, they are most likely stuck in the previous century where they even classified and stigmatised HIV the same way initially. They are just too sensitive, they think that they are ill and this is why they are ill, it's just mass hysteria, it's probably their homosexuality that makes them psychologically ill, these were the explanations from physicians that the first wave of HIV patients had to face. It's just a way of getting rid of the patient. History keeps repeating...
@@matfax my son did get a chronic fatigue diagnosis. I only found out when the school showed me the note the doctor sent them to excuse his absences. From my perspective, it felt like a diagnosis that said there was nothing more to be done for him except send him to a specialist any time I had a complaint and just let time heal. I can’t imagine being a child with no advocate in this situation. I know for a fact that he would still be bed bound.
THANK YOU for making all your content but especially for your controversial opinion! I'm 6 months in and been stressing for 3 of them about proving I'm ill and feeding and washing myself! Now I finally have the help I need and much more relaxed, and my symptoms are magically wayyy better (last 4 days anyway 😁). Go patient activists!!
Thank you Sophie!
I have been thinking of sending you a message asking you if you could make a video on the psychology of long covid. And I open my browser... and here it is ! Congratulations. When you are alone at night and you begin getting heart palpitations things can become very scary. Having difficulty breathing and having having to lie down on the sofa after taking a shower is scary, all this, daily, accumulates and can really bring one down. Thank you for your video. Psychology is so important.
Thanks Max - you’re quite right, the whole long covid experience is *fundamentally* scary. And this is why it sets the sympathetic nervous system off. So we have to do whatever we can to break ourselves out of this loop 👍
@@RUNDMC1 Absolutely!!!
This is by far your most helpful video. It has helped me tremendously when nothing else seemed to. Finally starting to get better!
So glad to hear that Austin!!
Excellent presentation! I left the Long Covid Support Group and focused on the Histamine Intolerance about 8 weeks past seeing your "Here's How to Treat LC", because I was burning out on encouraging the downcast. Recovering from CFS 15 years ago I learned the psychology lessons you are discussing here and spent hours typing re-directing responses to miserably sick and depressed people. I'm at 98% recovery from Sept initial infection, then Feb 8 start of addressing histamines right from your video!! I continue to share it and receive affirmations of how it has helped others. Going back to LC group with this one immediately. God bless ❤🙏❤
Thank you Judy and so glad to hear you’re almost recovered!
Histamine intolerance is a genetically predisposed condition. I think you might confuse this with MCAS, which also triggers histamine release and requires a similar therapy. In HI, histamine can not be properly degraded because one of the participating enzymes is genetically defective. You'd notice this quite early in your life. To be fair, mild histamine degradation issues aren't infrequent with MCAS, but this doesn't make it a primary issue with histamine tolerance when the core issue are unstable mast cells releasing excessive amounts of histamine, thereby bringing the histamine degradation to its limits.
@@matfax not sure what to do with all that. I did develop severe hay fever around age 15, lived on antihistamines every spring/summer since (I'm now 75). About 30+ years ago I developed random bouts of tachycardia and insomnia (never connected). With long covid the TC increased intensity and frequency. Following Gez's video on How To Treat LC brought me to HI. I have resolved my LC and most of my HI, as well as the TC and insomnia ...does it matter if I call it HI or MCAS?
@@judymiller5154 It matters a bit in that mast cell stabilizers don't only resolve histamine-related issues but also the other inflammatory signals that the mast cells send. Ketotifen is a drug that combines antihistamine and mast cell stabilizing mechanisms. Rupatadin is another antihistamine that can partly inhibit mast cell signaling. Side effects of both medications might slightly differ, sleepiness being the most common one. Both are prescription drugs that require medical advice. I hope it helps.
@@matfax I do appreciate you taking the time to kindly share the information about those medications. However, I still dont understand why I would care, being nearly fully recovered - just some diet changes and some fitness to regain. And no thanks to anything that might dampen my vitality or mental acuity. At 75, everyday of near-peak wellness is a total treasure...just got back from a 4 mile jog, putting finishing touches on a bathroom updating, then off to play with my 2 horses! God bless ❤🙏❤
Good morning Gez, you mention in the video that you take more supplements than would fit on the list, just wondering if you take more than your initial 'stack' you have previously listed?
Yes I do! 🙈
Btw, I tested positive for IgG a month after my first "recovery". Two weeks later I tested again for antibodies and it come out negative. I tested again in January this year and, again, negative. No antibodies at all. After one month of my first shot of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine I tested "very" positive for neutralizing antibodies. I am waiting for my second shot.
Gez, I am glad you are doing better and bet time was the main cause. But, in this presentation, I question your cause and effect conclusions about the mind.
How often do Long Haulers ask themselves those presented questions (eg, “will I ever get better?) on “good days?” I’m guessing, based on myself, not very often!
Yes, we SHOULD pay attention to our psyche and strive for positive thoughts (and treat psychiatric conditions!), but I feel getting physically better results in emotional positivity, not the other way around.
Georgia - i see what you're saying. When I was having those good days (or weeks), I became completely 100% positive and confident that "this was it" - I was getting better every day.. no questioning, no doubting - I felt mentally clear, and i honestly think i let go of all the negative stuff and felt like I was getting better. But then I would suddenly crash,, and sink back into that achy, inflamed, exhausted state. (I must say, when I am feeling physically good/healthy, my mind becomes clear, calm, optimistic and content. But when I'm in a crashed state, I do ask all those questions and i feel hopeless; almost like i can't help it. ) Actually, immediately after recovering from covid, I thought i was fully better, and I remember feeling great for a couple/few weeks, and going back out and exercising vigorously (in a very positive, optimistic state of mind).. I didn't know "long covid" existed (and actually had no knowledge about chronic illnesses whatsoever),, and then the horrible "crashes" started, with the full array of symptoms. Again, I was in a VERY positive, optimistic (blissfully ignorant) state heading into that initial "crash." So definitely, nothing negative was swirling in my head when i first got struck with this (because literally NOTHING was swirling in my head, except: "ahh, back to my exercise routine! Yeahhh!!!" )
@@joejohnston9730 My experience was similar (without the exercise). I simply don’t understand this reasoning (in the video) when like a lot of long haulers I’m sure, I got “tricked” into believing that that was it, this time I was truly recovered, and this so many times, yet I fell for it every time. Well, until it became minor enough to just accept it. Given everything, including my circumstances, I have never been more positive over such a long period of time and in the face of this unusual hardship.
And I didn’t think of LC more than I needed to.
One of my repeated thoughts throughout this ordeal has been 'must watch the latest from Gez'. Your videos have been a huge comfort, thank you.
A hyper-sensitised nervous system has plagued my body since March 2020. Symptoms come in bouts that appear to flare up with each new wave(?). The latest bout has been especially bad. Luckily, with ivermectin treatment my symptoms are improving. I have been vaccinated.
I’m glad to hear your symptoms are improving Priscilla, and thanks for the kind words!
UPDATE - I just wanted to provide an update to help give sufferers some hope. I'm 8 months on now and probably about 75% back to normal. I had the Moderna vaccine and started on 10mg of amitriptyline at night for the headaches about 4 months in which both seemed to help. Long Covid is a VERY real disease but the impact that it has on your mental health definitely doesn't help recovery. So don't be afraid to ask for help with your mental health too if you need it - there's absolutely no shame in it after going through Long Covid. Things will get better, you just need to focus on the small victories and don't get too upset by setbacks. Just focus on the progress that you're making and don't worry about the future. You will get there one day, I promise you
Thanks Jez. I think that i caught covid about the same time as you, and like you, finally feel that i have got my life back. Your remarks about the never ending questions in your head is spot on. Thanks to your utube, answering a lot of them my thoughts were calmer. Interesting the comments re balancing, i am now doing a lot of horse riding where you hav to be balanced its helped with my recovery. You take care.
Take care too Sharon, glad to hear you’re able to get back on the horse - figuratively and literally!
Someone I care for very much got LC in March 2020, and by Christmas 2020, became what I can now class as fairly obsessive about their LC. He was supposed to visit family over the holidays but due to lockdown had to stay home. I wholeheartedly suggested he take a break anyway with the LC stuff, and he tried a little but a day or so after had fully immersed himself in figuring out how to recover from LC. It was a very long dark winter of discontent, but the last few months he has been focusing on other things and has been getting better. I have very mild LC symptoms and I can joke about them with him, which would have been completely impossible, say around March. Great point to not let Long Covid define who you are as a person, allow a little fun back in your life, and be around people again, not just locked away at home. Cheers to the people who have stuck with you from the beginning of your Long Hauler track, through good days and bad, as it is hard for them to see a person suffer so, and know there is nothing they can do about it. I felt really torn up inside, like I couldn't do anything right on top of being far away, and every day for a long while seemed to bring me nothing but bad news when I would check in. Finding something joyful is really important as a part of healing! Cheers Gez!
You are right Melanie :)
@@RUNDMC1 I'm usually right about everything.
@@melanieolmsted6740 hi Melanie, my partner has been trying his best to help me through the long Covid long haul and I know I have made him feel like he can do nothing right to help, but he does just by being there for me, same as you are doing for your friend. On the dips it is difficult to raise a smile and not be impatient, just the post viral stuff doing its worst to make one miserable. Keep up your support because it really is so needed and appreciated. (But you probably knew all this already!) 😊
@@deniseh32033 Fortunately the person I know has a top class support system around him. Although he really was in his head over the winter and early spring. I'm glad he is doing better, and I really couldn't do very much to help. It was all him.
@@deniseh32033 Seriously Denise, I've been thinking about your comment, and what you said about patience, and not to minimize your illness, I totally validate your feelings, but I never doubted for a second that my friend would recover, or that you will recover, even in your darkest hour. See my Mum has Type 1 diabetes, and other than my Dad who passed away 30 years ago last Saturday (Father's Day,) and my Grandparents (my Mum's parents,) and especially me, I have been a caretaker for her since I could walk and talk. I was a caretaker for both my Grandparents, especially my Grandfather who I was the sole caretaker for until he passed 2 years ago, I have the learned to have deep patience, the patience of Job. My Mum's diabetes has been a chronic condition for hundreds of years, and her life expectancy was not very long when she was diagnosed 65 years ago. It still bothers me that 99% of people and paramedics don't know how to treat her when she goes into insulin shock, not even close friends and family. I have saved her life hundreds of times, given her shots since I was 10. I've learned how to see through people when they are sick, not anywhere near their best. You have to believe that things will be ok. Negativity never helps and stress plays with your hormones, even your metabolism, on top of your LC symptoms. My Grandpa was very wise, and he would say, "whatever you do, don't break your funny bone. Wise words for you and your partner." You will never forget your partner's love and compassion, but you will get better. You have been through a long haul literally Denise, when you are close to reclaiming yourself, allow yourself to grow and change as a person emotionally. Get a little sun, smiles when you can, and know how blessed you are to have your partner's love. It is really easy to be positive when life is going great, but someone who loves your soul and not just your body is a wonder thing. Tears and laughter often go together side by side. You will get better, but people with lifelong chronic disease will not. Until then why don't you and your partner learn acupuncture over the internet. (Just kidding, stick to the antihistamine diet, and do one good thing for yourself for you and your partner a day.) Try learning how to spell their name in sign language, and how to say thank you and I love you. Love is the thing you know!
Hi Gez,
SO glad you're feeling steady recovery at the moment - your milestone of doing all those paramedic shifts sounds so heartening and encouraging! Woo hoo!!!!
I really appreciated your update and also overview of your current, holistic treatment approach - including the little detail about being on aspirin for the blood thinning.
A few things:
1. I did watch most of the TLC conference: thanks for sharing that resource.
2. Do you have a link or suggestion where I can find Paul Glynne's most current treatment suggestions / protocol? (I want to be able to reference that to advocate with my GP).
3. In addition to your list of questions that many of us struggled with over the past year and a bit, it also strikes me that we may have had more 'stressed/anxious systems' simply given the pandemic context: being stripped of many of our 'normal' social connections, habits, and engagement; having the background concern of re-infection; and it being harder to access healing environments and conditions with any ease. (I know that's arguably true for all who got Covid, not just those with long-Covid, but just conveying empathy for what a 'perfect storm' it's been for an anxious response).... Being on that 'front wave' has just been profoundly uncertain and unnerving (got sick at the exact same time as you).
I am also happy to share that I'm definitely moving in restorative directions, too - and absolutely agree that working at all levels of: mind, body, brain (as well as social/ecological context) gives us the best support for healing and recovery!
However, excited to consider adding anti-histamines, aspirin, and Ivermectin to the mix to see if I can offer further support to the physiological side of things.
As always, with deep appreciation and gratitude for your service and work - Nicola
Another cracking video Gez! I am really starting to buy into the idea of positive thinking/stress minimisation on recovery. How do you disassociate taking supplements, performing mindfulness/breathing exercises etc from suffering with long covid? For me I have found it helpful to completely stop doing anything that reminds me I am unwell (except pacing else I am quickly reminded!) and just put it out of my mind. How do you do all the helpful things without it constantly reminding yourself that you are suffering?
I just don’t think of them as being ill, it’s just part of anything else you’d normally do like eating!
Going to try a holistic approach since GP is pushing at me that its ALL anxiety.
When will GP learn that everything is NOT caused by anxiety.
@@PatrickBateman191 I’ve had CFS for 25 years and also got covid last March, I’m much sicker post covid than I was before - it’s basically cfs with long-covid on top.
At no stage in my illness have I had a doctor take it seriously, I’ve been told all kinds of nonsensical bullshit by doctors to explain away the condition.
Hopefully with all the research going into covid, mainstream medicine will be able to provide some effective treatments, but in my experience many doctors are wilfully ignorant of these kind of complex conditions, many are much more comfortable passing it off as anxiety or depression rather than acknowledge their glaring ignorance. It’s an incredibly tough situation to be in as a patient.
I used to work out at the gym 4 times a week: heavy cardiovascular workouts and strength training. Now, after having caught covid and almost dying, i cant even do 20 minutes with almost no resistance on my spin bike at home. I have difficulty doing a bench press with only the bar's weight. So discouraging 😢. Exercising was my life, now i walk slowly around my house and that is all i can do. Thank you again for the video.
So sorry to hear that Max. Right there with you.
@@RUNDMC1 You have a very compassionate soul. You probably know that compassion is the most advanced and the most highly evolved human emotion. Not everyone can have compassion.
Hi..how are you doing ?
@@PatrickBateman191 are you doing better? Where u able to get back to weight lifting?
Thanks a lot for the video Gez 🙏🏻. Your recovery gives hope to many. There will always be naysayers as you are probably finding out after posting this video. Would have loved a more elaborate/detailed video though on the things that aided ur recovery 🙂.
Strong respect to you training to become a paramedic. All your covid knowledge should stand you in good stead (do people even say that now).
Good luck and best wishes for the future.
Thank you Ken!
I know this is 'controversial' for some but for me, who has found mindfulness and emotional health techniques VITAL to my ongoing recovery, I am so relieved that someone like you, commited to the science of Long Covid has made this video!! People need to acknowledge this aspect of recovery. I am sick to the back teeth of hostility towards this aspect of health. Well done Gez, congrats on your recovery and now I hope for mine.
Thank you T S. There’s already been quite a bit of angry pushback on Twitter about this - but like you I feel it’s really important :)
Is that u Toni? Are u no longer on Twitter?
@@atticus149 Hello - it is! I quit my 'long covid' Twitter page yesterday because I was fed up of the misery, nay saying, negativity etc. Not necessarily from the LC community but more from certain pwME. It just got me down, so i deleted the account and app. I'll be sorry to not to see people's recovery stories, but overall its pretty toxic.
@@TS-rv4hf I can understand the reasons for u to leave Twitter. Having a long Covid Twitter account is similar to being in a Catch 22 situation. Will miss some of ur posts though. Hope the experiments u hv embarked on in the course of ur recovery work.
You are 100% on track. I had ME/CFS bad enough to be a wheelchair user for 17 years. Any attempt to exercise caused relapse, that is until the mind (anxiety and stress) were dealt with. I did a course called The Lightning Process which literally changed my life overnight. There are similar courses that probably do the same thing - essentially interrupting the stress hormone cycle (coming from your mindset).
Thanks Peter - so glad you’ve managed to get better after so long!
Jeezus man you are a trooper. Did you recover fully from CFS with it?
@@TheBushRanger. Physically 95% better. Mentally l still have some concentration and memory issues.
Thankyou , your videos are like a virtual hug when no one else seems to understand what us long covid sufferers are going through . You offer us hope and positivity 🙂 the questions ... When will I get better ? Really resonated with me. Every single question you discussed is in my head all the time !!
I've been listening to some excellent podcasts about the link between mind and body/ pain ... I have tried to avoid social media forums as it made me more anxious and the illness felt like it was all consuming
Thanks Ella - hope you’re on the road to recovery yourself!
@@RUNDMC1 six months in ...very up and down tbh but trying to bat away those questions that resurface . I'm focusing on what I can control , mindset , breath work, pilates and surrounding myself with empathic lovely people that understand how tough this is .
You’re doing very well - stick with it!
@@RUNDMC1 thankyou , you've given me more motivation to keep going ! This is just what we need right now. Having this illness has also reaffirmed my love of psychology/ the mind and I'm going to do an online masters in it hopefully , so I have more reason to get well
Hey! Im so glad your doing way better! I’m also a long hauler myself and I been dealing with it for 6 months now. Your videos been very helpful to me ! Can I ask what SSR helped with brain fog and neurological issues please? And what helps with body fatigue ! Thank you for everything you do for us! If it wasn’t for you I would think I would be like this forever 💔
I’ve been taking mirtazapine 7.5mg and escitalopram 5mg.
@@RUNDMC1 you take both on a daily for brain fog or that’s also for fatigue? Thank you for replying !
I appreciate your videos no end.. you are the only person that was able to tell it like it is.. 🙏 thank you!
Thanks Yaz!
You have nailed it here jez well done and as always fantastic insight. I know I have mentioned before it took me about a year to recover and a few small relapses even post that which lasted a couple of days when I pushed to much. I already suffered badly with anxiety pre long covid and ironically this actually equipped me to deal with it better as I had a lot of support systems in place for that I could lean on. Firstly I firmly believe everyone will recover in time from this horrible illness. I myself have now returned to playing 5aside, golf and coaching and I have been lucky in that I have managed to work also through it. I agree with all of your recommendations, acceptance is key and a believe you will recover. Diet and sleep are absolutely crucial, as well as recognising flareups and resting when u need too. Minimising stress and all of the supplementation in particular has aided my recovery. I will say also that alcohol is a definite out in my experience. My last remaining residual issues seems to be brain fog that lingers a bit. There is huge hope for everyone and never think about giving up it will change and you will improve 👏
Thanks Simon. Glad to hear you have recovered!
I'm glad this worked for you, and while I would agree with much of what you said, I have to disagree with the ideas of not identifying with the condition and spending less time on LC social media. Speaking only for myself, LC social media has been part of what has supported me and helped me to understand my illness in a world of doctors that could not tell me what was going on with me. Also, if I did not identify with my illness, which I may have for the remainder of my life, so I may as well start to make peace with that now, then I may not have pushed to have my illness recognized by my employer as a disability worthy of being accommodated when they did not want to provide such. So, for me, at least, it is worth identifying as someone with LC so that I am fighting for what I deserve despite what others may say or think.
Very good and considered points Jeffrey - thank you :)
Very interesting video! About one month ago, I had received the Moderna vaccine and it improved my long covid and I thought that I was 95% recovered. But, I took some vacations a few days ago and things weren't great (problem with the car, ruined a day, kind-of too much road,...) and I had an unexpected relapse for a few days. It is getting better however. What I didn't knew was that I am fine if and only if I stay reasonable. I know that I will be fine if I stay withing my new limit and maybe some day, these limits won't be there anymore!
I definitely got set back with the second jab for about two weeks
Yes, we can all be smug at times when we shouldn't. Glad you are better.
sick neuropsychologist here. I hardly ever looked at this illness from a psychologist perspective funny enough. Thanks for your videos, Gez!
Thank you!
Hi Gez, another excellent video and it is so great to hear how well you are doing now ! This topic really resonated with me, and I too have seen some of my best and fastest improvements since starting the another brain training programme (ANS Rewire). I still have a way to go but I now feel like full recovery is so much closer. The mind is a powerful tool for sure. Have also found that cutting out sugar and bringing more fats and protein rather than too many carbs into my diet has been a game changer.
Hi Hannah - yes the keto diet can be very effective for some people too. Glad to hear you’re doing better!
Love you Gez. So glad you're improving, it's very encouraging. I'm a few steps behind you but I'll get there ☺️
You will Holly, keep the faith!
I'm really happy to hear that you are getting better. Hopefully you will be able to come back to your running soon! 💪😀👍
Yes indeed! But when I do it’ll be very slow and gentle, for quite a while!
@@RUNDMC1 If there is anything positive we can gain from LC experience it's definitely ability to be patient. Take it easy and good luck. 👍
Hi all , with regards to ivermectin, is it worth taking now that I am six months in or is it more preferable to take initially during the.acute phaze ? ..I guess if the hypothesise could be that residual virus is lingering in the body , that maybe a course of ivermectin would help ? . Is the dosage based on your weight ? . I caught bilharzia travelling in Malawi and that anti viral medicine was taken based on weight .
Have many of you have tried ivermectin ? . I am trying to figure out how you find the correct dosage when docs aren't prescribing it here in the UK
If you haven’t taken Ivermectin yet it’s worth giving it a whirl no matter how long it’s been, although yes it’s got clearer efficacy in the acute phase
@@RUNDMC1 excellent thanks I will give it a try then
My grandson 22 has had LC for almost a year - it just seemed to happen though he has a covind-19 perhaps twice - then he starts first year of college & went to Barcelona for a semester and bam that's when he got "hit" - thought it was food poisoning - going to skip well I have to skip a lot because I don't know the details; let me say he is my first grand & I took care of him for 3 years everyday & some nights (he's want to stay over when he got older), this is breaking my heart: - yes as see these videos I understand, and understood before the videos because I have Stiff Person Syndrome for 32 years and it's "low level" it started when I was mid 40's - now it's progressed his mental state -though from my son, Tariq (the grandson) is really mentally "burnt out"
Thanks Gez, needed this boost this morning. I've been trying to implement alot of the same but find it hard to stay on the path when having a dip. How are people managing to get there hands on Ivermectin in the UK?
It’s difficult to get hold of here - most people have to ship it in.
You seem to pathologise very normal and understandable questions and reactions to illness. While it is good to remain positive and hopeful, ignoring so-called negative emotions is not helpful. It can lead to even greater anxiety, if you feel you have to put on a brave face despite feeling overwhelmed, sad, bewildered, sick to your bones. Social media, connecting with others can be helpful. It is about balance. Not one or the other. I think you missed that point. It is also ignoring the experience of people who've gone (years, decades) before, who've always been strong, hopeful and positive, but are still ill and disabled.
Yes I don’t say the word balance explicitly but that is what I’m essentially talking about. I’m also not saying that psychology alone is going to make you better - just that understanding you *might* need to make interventions there as well as elsewhere to give you the best possible chance of recovery.
@@RUNDMC1 Mweh. That's hardly backed up by science. And goes contrary to the experience of thousands of patients whose psychology was no problem, yet still remained ill. Or those who did have some work to do there, and also remained ill.
The danger of this idea is, that it puts an undue burden on the patient for their own recovery. When they still don't, they get blamed. It can amount to gaslighting. I understand that's not your intention, truly. But I'm speaking from experience. It can backfire. Causing more stress instead of eliminating it.
@@AJansenNL It seems to be a matter of belief. Based on my own experience I, too, am a non believer.
I was refreshing UA-cam after every 3 min for your video
Could garlic replace ASA for those allergic/intolerance? I had a severe lack of clotting from excessive garlic consumption.
Hi Gez, are you able to share the dosage you use for melatonin? Really struggled with sleeping since long covid. Thanks for the videos!
I take about 3mg night at the moment!
The depression has been absolutely awful
oh yes, for me it was depression combined with anxiety.
Thank you so much for all your work. I’ve followed you since your first video and we’ve been on similar paths. I’m 16 months and im currently doing a brain neural retraining. I’m not recovered but I’m coping better. I hope we find a cure soon
Glad to hear you’re coping better - patience is key in this journey!
Glad to hear you’re coping better - patience is key in this journey!
How often do you go and do acupuncture and crano sacral therapy?
Gez, Did you get a chance to send your blood to Dr. Patterson? If so what was elevated?
I did. I scored 1.75 on the long hauler index. Most of it was extremely elevated!
RUN-DMC Thats amazing. Some people a year out and their panel is still not back to normal. I had mine done in april a month after my long hauler symptoms started my index was 5.1. After a month on his protocol it dropped down to .3. Per his words he said my immune system is back to normal. Hope my body starts healing now.
Gez how were you doing on corticosteroids ? Did you try budesonize inhaler or prednisone ? I have shortness of breath again
I was on Prednisolone. Felt great during them, felt exhausted after coming off them
I really appreciate the videos. The roller coaster of emotions with relapses was really outlined beautifully in this video. Does anybody know any long haulers that have been able to say they are “100% healed“? Gez have you been able to return to running or jogging yet? Can’t wait to get back into the squat rack one day. I often wonder if I ever will.
Hi Scott - I’ve not tried running yet, I’m still just trying to get through my days and there’s too much else going on to add it on top! Hopefully will do soon though :)
@@RUNDMC1 walk/jogging 30-45 seconds of slow jogging, 1 minute of walking, repeat for 15 mins... over 4 weeks work up to 30 mins. monitor HR, keep it low.
i think it depends on how long they have been sick. i've seen many, many people who were only sick for a couple/few months say they are fine now, but there seems to be a lot of us from the "first wave" back in March/April 2020 that still haven't gotten better.
@@GeorgiaLinders i am one of them. Still same. I had very mild covid but it's been a tough ride after that.
@@adafridi me, too.
Am a long hauler, 18 months of a rollercoaster. Been through tons of different issues, Medical tests all clear. except high WBC and
C Reactive protein. I suspect SIBO as I had oral thrush. Never had this in my life
Latest is numbness of tongue and lips. Started a low histamine diet, and taking THE STACK supplements. Its been a week and already seeing a difference . I am abit hesitate to take the NIACIN due to the lips numbness... pls advise did anyone have this as well and how did you manage it?? Refuse to go to another doctor... will try to heal my body in a natural way.
Hi Gez, just catching up on your latest videos, this one is really great. Thanks for all your work. I fully believe in the mindbody connection and have a couple of questions! (1) You've been doing such great work on long covid, really helping people. Do you think that aspect of things and your success here (and maybe with the paramedic work too) has helped you take steps forward i your recovery? Finding a new sense of purpose almost? And in the same vein, (2) at the time covid hit you, were you in stressed state generally (film making looks fun but I'm sure can be stressful) and if so, do you think that contributed to your reaction to covid and the presence of the long-haul symptoms?
Hi Owen!
1) yes it has helped, but there have definitely been times I’ve overdone it
2) Yes, was massively physiologically stressed when I first caught COVID and I have no doubt that played a part in developing long covid
thank you for all your wonderful content, i don’t feel as hopeless with the empowerment from your videos! have you talked more about SSRIs in treating long covid somewhere else? how did escitalopram work for you?
Escitalopram helped stabilise my mood but I’m only on a low dose
Can you do a video on hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a treatment for fatigue. I've been suffering for 6 weeks. I can barely walk, stand, talk or watch tv. I have seen lots of people talk about using hbot but don't know if I should and am also claustrophobic.
If you’re claustrophobic and that ill I wouldn’t recommend HBOT until your health has improved a bit
1st infection November 2020 took 7-8 months to see some light. 2nd Covid infection March 2023 here I am in August 2023 with a severe sore throat. I tested negative for flu, strep and covid but the weird panic anxiety and gloom started to resurface for some odd reason. This stuff gets confusing. Could use some positive feedback, anyone ??
Hi Gez can you make a 2023 version of this video please?
CBT can help people understand and deal with the debilitations of LC and ME/CFS, but it certainly isn't going to help people recover fully. I hate that most doctors are saying to try meditation and CBT - talk about ignorant.
Same thought, same comment. There's completely no scientific basis to it. In fact, it has been disproven for CFS/ME. Imho, holistic treatment harms people in so far that some doctors make their patients believe that all they need is CBT, GET, or some sugar pills. GET has shown to enhance ME, and according to Dr. Patterson, it also shows to enhance LHS mechanistically. CBT can trigger a similar light headedness and naivity. The disease will never disappear just like that, only by belief. We can subconsciously ignore it and this can make us believe that we aren't sick, so we might feel healthy, although it only needs a certain level of exertion and it's all back in the presence, possibly worse than before because we didn't pace properly. This is why I think that pacing therapy is the only CBT that actually makes sense.
After several months of chronic fatigue, I am finally able to exercise without the fear of feeling wiped out the next day.
I had 5 acupuncture sessions and I am now living again, rather than just existing.
It worked for me, and it may work for you guys, it's worth a try!
It’s massively helped me too!
That's good to hear ☺️👍
Great to hear and we are on similar path 17+ months but use ortho bionomy body work and red light therapy for mitochondria. However had a breakthrough flair with two major life stressors within one week of one another recently. But managing it faster than earlier setbacks thankfully. Considering Dr Patterson's findings may do a course of maraviroc. But what I really am pondering is I have yet to consider vaccinating due to previous anaphylaxis MCAS/EDS/POTS and history of blood clot. Assuming you being in Paramedic training you received a vaccine Gez? If so how did you manage side effects, if any? Thanks again for all your work from this Kool Been over in New Jersey, USA.
Hi Denise - I’ve had two doses of AZ. Side effects lasted a week or so. Just had to ride them out!
Hi Gez, this video was so motivating! I didnt manage to watch the TLC conference and was hoping a recording would be released. Can you provide any bullet points re what doseage of aspirin is recommended and whether SSRI's are purely for the low mood side of things or also as anti-inflammatories? What are your thoughts on Dr Patterson recommending statins?
Can’t comment on the statins but SSRIs help some parts of the dysautonomic puzzle. Re aspirin dosage, personally I’m on 300mg but if you don’t want to go that high you could go for the 70mgs
@@RUNDMC1 Thanks Gez, really pleased to see how much you are improving!
Cheers to us both feeling a bit better! What are your thoughts on the use of Prednisone? Like you said, it is a feedback loop that needs interruption. And yes, I don't talk about being ill anymore, for my own sake. By the way, to lift your ego a touch more, I do have a covid crush on you! You are cute to look at and maybe that is why I'm feeling better. Thank you for using your artistry, curiosity, and tenacity to help us navigate the viral labyrinth towards homeostasis. Onwards and Upwards - CC
Prednisolone is a tricky one. Makes you feel better in the short term. Increase risk of relapse when you come off.
Really validating and encouraging thankyou =)
Hi Gez, would you recommend courses of ivermectin/do you feel they contributed to your recovery? If so, would you be able to share a link to any advice you used for how much to take etc? Want to be sure to get it right!
Hi Caitlin, all things considered and in reflection I can’t say I would recommend taking it. Sorry if that’s not what you wanted to hear!
@@RUNDMC1 No that's really helpful, thank you!
Estas ayudando a tanta gente que te mereces millones de aplausos
I'm finding light in your channel because I'm experiencing many long term effects.
I'm seriously getting pissed because physicians chalk it up to Anxiety only
So pleased you're feeling better! You seem very grounded in the video. I'm also doing the Gupta program and adapting it to my needs. This approach is 100% the right one. I was also a marathon runner and have been able to do some cycling again of late. Hope you're able to exercise properly again soon!
Great to hear you’re exercising again Tom - I’m not quite there yet, paramedic placement is taking too much out of me. One thing at a time!
Hey Tom, how’s your condition? Are you able to exercise yet? I really would like to get back into it. Thanks
Thank you for sharing Gez! I completely agree with the approach. Happy to hear that you feel better.
Thank you!
I so appreciate this video. It resonates so much with me and my experience. Thank the so much!!!
Gez, how are you doing now? ARE YOU RUNNING AGAIN? I thought I was done with it especially since I received the vaccine. It has been two months of continual physical improvement to the point that I was walking about 2 hours daily for about 3 weeks and moving onto more aerobic physical challenges--mountain biking for about 40min, doing sprint swims, stationary biking, jogging, etc.. Well. its not over---one day I ended up with 150/90 bp and felt really bad (no tachycardia, just high blood pressure). My bp was normally running 115/70 for quite a long time and I had not experienced this since November of last year. It took two days and I recovered well enough to start walking for 45min daily, but then....bam...another high bp and this time (for my first time) with tachycardia while sleeping. oh BTW...I had discontinued all meds for about 2-3 months before getting this pop. This is just to let you know---its not over. WIll I get back to the condition I was---that is what I am trying to achieve. We will see. I now have trigger points that I look at---HR over 150 while exercising is too much, heat is too much---if you're sweating, its time to be careful.
Hi Roger - my limits are still lower than yours and I’m not back to running yet unfortunately!
Well Roger its been awhile..how are you?
I have had LC for well over a year. The NHS is not treating me for it, but, they have done many many tests and think I have Thyroid Cancer. I DON'T. I'm waiting for an Iodine 123 scan but I have an operation booked to remove my thyroid. Has anyone else had this 'crossover' issue ?
It’s great that you are feeling better and I watched TLC but you didn’t say that you have returned to training / running… Have you?
No, not yet. Going to try reintegrating it soon. You don’t want to add everything back into the mix all at once!
thank you, definitely helps that somebody else identifies with my condition after covid. after 8mos finally experiencing more relief. symptoms are abating, and yes i envy the healthy or those asymptomatic but accepted the world as it is right now. your videos have helped me understand the science of virology and its effects. thank you so much. my battlecry!! onward to recovery!! @-@
Onwards to recovery indeed!