COVID-19 and its lingering form, long COVID, have been associated with impaired sensory neurons, according to a recent study from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Sensory neurons, which govern functions like smell, taste, touch, pain, and temperature sensitivity, may face damage, leading to diminished senses.
Remarkably, the study discovered that infected neurons release viral proteins, including the spike protein and nucleocapsid proteins, rather than the virus itself.
It's noteworthy that not all neurons suffered infection. While lab-created neurons were exposed to various strains (Wuhan, delta, and omicron), only about 30 percent displayed infection, with the omicron variant demonstrating the lowest infection rate.
In terms of sensory symptoms seen in long COVID and vaccine-related cases, some doctors suspect they may be attributed to the spike proteins on the COVID-19 virus's surface. This aligns with the way mRNA and adenovirus vaccines instruct the body to produce spike proteins.
The MIT study affirms what neurologist Dr. Diane Counce described as “our clinical gut instinct” regarding the underlying cause of these symptoms.
In addition to spike proteins, other factors may contribute.
Inflammation is a common driver. It arises as immune cells clear out viruses and their proteins. However, a persistent state of inflammation isn't conducive to normal neural function and can lead to hyperreactivity and damage in neurons.
Some patients may also develop mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). This condition makes patients highly sensitive to environmental changes. Histamine released in such situations irritates nerves, causing neuropathic pain and itching. Swelling and mucus production from this allergic response can also affect the senses if sensory neurons are near the site of histamine release.
Micro-clotting is another increasingly recognized factor. Nerves form a network around blood vessels, and clotting disrupts the supply of nutrients to nerves, potentially causing something akin to “infarcts in the nerves,” according to Dr. Counce. Sensory issues from micro-clotting often coincide with symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, and breathlessness.
As these mechanisms can intersect and affect various systems simultaneously, a combination of different therapeutic approaches is often necessary, as noted by internal medicine physician Dr. Keith Berkowitz.
The treatment strategies can be categorized as follows:
Treatments That Clear Spike Proteins:
- Ivermectin
- N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
- Nattokinase
Treatments That Reduce Inflammation:
- Intravenous Fluid Therapy
- Low-Dose Naltrexone
Treatments That Inhibit Neural Overactivity:
- Gabapentin
- Stellate Ganglion Block
Treatments That Repair Neurological Damage:
- Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF)
Treatments That Prevent Clotting:
- Curcumin
- Bromelain
- Triple Therapy
It's crucial to emphasize that any treatment plan should be under expert medical supervision due to potential risks. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
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