Chronic Fatigue, Pots Syndrome and Long Covid- Recovery
July 7 2020 I got Covid 19 and I have had lingering health issues ever since. I was in the best health of my life before I got Covid. The months following Covid my body progressively deteriorated. I went from being in the best health of my life to being disabled. Over the past few years, I have dedicated my life to healing. It has been a difficult journey- but I continue to get stronger every day. I now am strong enough to exercise again!!! I can ride my e-bike over 25 miles, hike 3 miles of moderate hikes and I can train and compete with my dragon boat team (this is intense exercise). I still have to pace myself to ensure that I don’t overdo it. Many people without these illnesses would not be strong enough to do all the physical activities I do. I feel proud to have achieved this level of recovery.
I went from staying active on scooter to being able to walk dog, bike and paddle.
People often ask me “How did you get better?” There is not just one thing I did. It is definitely a combination of things that set me on the road to recovery.
I made healing and recovery my top priority.
I cut back on activities- that were interfering with my recovery. There were sacrifices made. I was fortunate enough to be able to quit my job and move in with my Mom for year so I could focus on healing. I didn’t want to do this- but I knew I wasn’t strong enough to maintain my job.
I went to the dentist and treated a gum infection. Don’t underestimate the connection between teeth and health.
I learned to make sleep a priority. The days of little or no sleep are over. I try to keep a regular sleep schedule. When I have days when I am more tired I take naps when possible. I go to bed early on days when my fatigue levels are extremely high.
I work very hard to stay hydrated and to manage my electrolytes. There was a time period when I got blood tests every couple of days to check my sodium levels. For Pots Syndrome I have found that when my sodium level is low-that’s when I have flares.
I worked with an immunologist and did a very regimented vitamin regime. The impact on this was huge. I now continue to do Vitamin B injections at home. There was a time when I did them daily- now I do them weekly - more often if I feel a flare is coming on.
I have learned to say no. I am someone who always wants to do everything. I have learned to prioritize. I know I can’t do everything- so I pace my energy so that the most important things I am able to do. Now it is rare that I can’t do things- but I know the signs of a flare and reduce activities when I am not as strong.
I try to eat a healthy diet. I notice a huge difference in the way I feel when I eat healthy foods vs. junk food.
Stress is a huge trigger for me with my illness. To help me manage my stress better I do yoga, meditation, practice gratitude and go to therapy. Stress is powerful. Life is full of stress- it can’t be avoided. It is essential to learn stress management techniques to improve health and happiness.
I also have surrounded myself with a wonderful support system. I have family and friends who are understanding of my health issues and have been encouraging to me along the way.
This journey has been hard. diagnosing all of the conditions involved frequent doctors visits, lab work, even a couple of hospital stays. But I am doing better now. I remember what it was like when I didn’t know if I would ever get better. These are chronic conditions and do involve managing them. But because I paced myself I have continued to improve. If you would like help with your recovery. I would be happy to coach you on your healing journey. Everyone has their own unique journey but a health coach like myself can help you achieve success in your road to recovery.
