For many individuals, recovering from COVID-19 isn’t the end of the journey. Weeks or even months after the initial infection, lingering symptoms—collectively known as Long COVID—can persist, affecting daily life and mental well-being. As traditional treatments often fall short, some are exploring alternative therapies like intravenous (IV) ketamine to find relief.
What is Long COVID?
Long COVID, also referred to as Post-COVID Conditions, encompasses a wide range of symptoms that continue beyond the acute phase of the infection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these symptoms can include:
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Persistent fatigue
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Brain fog or memory issues
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Anxiety and depression
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Shortness of breath
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Muscle aches and chest pain
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Sleep disturbances
These symptoms can fluctuate, sometimes improving before worsening again, making recovery unpredictable and challenging. Notably, Long COVID can affect anyone who has had COVID-19, regardless of the severity of their initial illness.
The Challenge of Treatment
Managing Long COVID is complex due to its multifaceted nature. Standard treatments often provide limited relief, prompting the exploration of alternative therapies. One such promising avenue is IV ketamine therapy, traditionally used for anesthesia and treatment-resistant depression.
How Does Ketamine Work?
Ketamine functions as an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, modulating glutamate transmission in the brain. This modulation can lead to increased neuroplasticity and synaptogenesis, potentially restoring neural pathways disrupted by Long COVID. Additionally, ketamine possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which may alleviate neuroinflammation associated with persistent COVID-19 symptoms.
A case report published in the National Library of Medicine documented the use of intranasal ketamine to treat depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation linked to Long COVID, highlighting its potential benefits.
Is It Right for You?
IV ketamine therapy isn’t for everyone, and it should only be administered under the supervision of a trained medical team. However, if you’ve been suffering from Long COVID and traditional treatments haven’t provided relief, it may be worth exploring.
At Virginia Ketamine Therapy, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care and can help determine whether ketamine infusions might be the next step on your healing journey.
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