Bateman Horne Center Presentation on Comorbid Conditions
Introduction and Background
Objective: To discuss comorbid conditions such as long COVID, ME/CFS/FM, and other post-viral illnesses, and to provide tools for individuals to have informed discussions with their physicians.
Study Overview: Initial data from a study involving the Long Haulers Utah Facebook group was presented, focusing on individuals who have been sick for at least 12 weeks and managed their illness outside of hospitals.
Understanding ME/CFS
Definition: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME-CFS) is a long-term illness characterized by extreme fatigue and other symptoms.
Prevalence in Study: Over half of the Long COVID applicants in the study met the Institute of Medicine criteria for ME/CFS.
Symptoms and Physical Manifestations
Post-Exertional Malaise (PEM)
Definition: A significant symptom of post-viral illnesses, characterized by a severe reduction in physical and cognitive abilities following exertion.
Management: Includes pacing oneself, sitting during activities, and elevating legs to aid blood flow.
Impact on Daily Life: Activities like reading, social interactions, and even emotional exertions can trigger PEM, leading to a "crash" where the individual experiences worsened symptoms.
Orthostatic Intolerance and POTS
Definition: Conditions where the autonomic nervous system fails to maintain adequate blood flow to the brain during upright positioning, leading to various symptoms.
Symptoms: Include dizziness, heart palpitations, brain fog, muscle pain, cognitive issues, and gastrointestinal problems.
POTS: A form of orthostatic intolerance where there is a significant increase in heart rate upon standing, often accompanied by a narrowing of the blood pressure range.
Management: Understanding and managing triggers, and sometimes medication can help manage symptoms.
Small Fiber Neuropathy
Definition: A condition affecting small nerves in the body, leading to a range of symptoms including gastrointestinal issues and abnormal bladder function.
Symptoms: Can include dry eyes and mouth, abnormal sweating, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Diagnosis: Through careful biopsy sent to a high-quality lab for analysis.
Symptoms: Include itching, swelling, cognitive issues, and can even affect respiratory function, leading to symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
Triggers: Can be triggered by a variety of factors including certain foods, beverages, and environmental factors like odors and perfumes.
Management: Includes pharmacological therapies such as Antihistamines and anti-leukotrienes, and maintaining a low histamine diet.
Conclusion and Q&A
Self-Care: Encouraging individuals to understand their symptoms and triggers, and to manage their energy effectively to avoid "crashes."
Optimism: The speakers encouraged maintaining a positive outlook and taking good care of oneself for the best possible outcomes.
Diagnostic Tests: Highlighted the availability of diagnostic tests for many of the discussed conditions, encouraging individuals to seek personalized advice from healthcare providers.