Functional Medical Approach and Management for Long COVID

Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, is a condition with symptoms persisting more than 4 weeks after diagnosis, including fatigue, headache, anosmia, ageusia, chronic cough, shortness of breath, impaired concentration and memory, sleep disturbances, depression, anxiety, and hair loss. It affects 20% to 60% of acute COVID-19 patients. Despite its high incidence, there is no clear definition or objective diagnostic criteria for long COVID, and diagnosis and treatment options are limited due to insufficient evidence. However, a functional medicine approach, considering aspects such as adrenal fatigue, gut health, inflammation resolution, histamine imbalance, and vitamin D deficiency, can be beneficial. This approach uses blood tests, urinary organic acid profile, food intolerance tests, and lifestyle modification, along with oral or intravenous nutrition therapies.