Understanding Long COVID: Insights from Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly

“The burden of disease and disability from Long COVID, when you measure it, is on par with the burden of cancer and heart disease.” — Dr. Ziyad Al-AlyIn our recent interview with Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, we delved into the complex and pressing issue of Long COVID, a condition affecting over 65 million people globally. Dr. Al-Aly’s testimony before the U.S. Senate on January 18, 2024, underscores the growing concern and need for research surrounding this debilitating condition that currently has no treatment or cure.Dr. Al-Aly’s groundbreaking researchBefore the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Al-Aly was already a prominent figure in the medical research community, noted particularly for his work on proton pump inhibitors. His research revealed the potential harms associated with the chronic use of these medications, a discovery that has shaped current deprescribing practices and medication management strategies.The Long COVID challengeLong COVID is a condition caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus where patients never seem to fully recover from the acute infection of COVID-19. Dr. Al-Aly explained how Long COVID manifests through a wide array of symptoms, impacting multiple organ systems. He highlighted that patients often experience persistent fatigue, brain fog, and cardiovascular issues long after the acute phase of infection has passed.Dr. Al-Aly’s insights are crucial especially for healthcare professionals navigating the complexities of this condition with their patients. He emphasized the importance of recognizing Long COVID as a serious public health issue, one that requires comprehensive, patient-centred approaches for management and support.Raising awareness and finding solutionsThis interview sheds light on the urgent need for ongoing research, patient advocacy, and the development of effective treatment strategies. His discussion also touches upon the significant economic and social impacts of Long COVID, highlighting the broad scope of this health crisis.To gain a deeper understanding of Long-COVID and learn from Dr. Al-Aly's expertise, watch the full interview on the Friendly Pharmacy 5 Channel. This detailed discussion is divided into chapters for easy navigation, covering topics from viral persistence and gut health to the economic implications of Long COVID.Watch the interviewJoin us in raising awareness and advocating for those affected by Long COVID. Watch the full interview with Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly here.CHAPTERS:00:00 Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly's story04:40 Proton Pump Inhibitors and Dr. Al-Aly’s research06:48 Understanding Long COVID in 202013:06 PLRC: Patient-driven advocacy for Long COVID14:33 Numbers associated with Long COVID20:45 Post-acute Sequelae across multiple organ systems25:15 Risk of Long COVID with infection27:20 Hybrid immunity fallacy30:45 Kidney function and COVID-19 infection33:39 Brain and cognitive research and COVID-1936:35 Viral persistence, gut health and COVID-1943:42 Paxlovid and Long COVID45:38 Economic impact of Long COVID50:28 Ventilation and other prevention methods for COVID-19By watching this interview and staying informed, we can better support our patients and contribute to the broader effort of managing and mitigating the impact of Long COVID on our communities.Access expert interviews and evidence-based health content at your fingertips on the Friendly Pharmacy 5 Channel, also on Spotify and Apple PodcastsLindsay Dixon is a pharmacist, consultant, and public health ambassador for Heart Pharmacy Group. She is also the founder of Friendly Pharmacy 5 & CreateRx. For collaborations or consulting services: www.friendlypharmacy5.com

Understanding Long COVID: Insights from Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly

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