#35: The Autonomic Nervous System in Long COVID, with Dr Alba Azola, MD

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In this conversation, Dr. Khan discusses the impact of the autonomic nervous system in Long COVID, with Dr. Alba Azola, Assistant Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Johns Hopkins University.  Dr Azola explains the complexities of autonomic dysfunction, particularly focusing on dysautonomia and POTS, and how these conditions affect patients' daily lives. The discussion highlights the importance of a patient-centered approach in rehabilitation and the need for a multidisciplinary team to address the various symptoms and challenges faced by long COVID patients. In this conversation, Drs Azola and Khan delve into the complexities of dysautonomia, particularly in the context of long COVID and mast cell activation syndrome. They discuss the importance of understanding autonomic dysfunction, the role of mast cells in various symptoms, and the need for a collaborative healthcare approach. The conversation emphasizes non-pharmacologic interventions, the significance of tailored exercise programs, and the various medications available to manage symptoms. Ultimately, they highlight the importance of patient empowerment and finding healthcare providers who are willing to listen and collaborate.

Dr Alba Azola, MD
@HopkinsMECFSC
@AzolaAlba

Bio

Assistant Professor, Departments of Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine and Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins Medical Center. Director of the Long COVID Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Clinic and Co-director of the JH-UTSW Brain Health Program. She is a co-investigator in several NIH, PCORI, and CDC-sponsored studies on Long COVID. As part of the AAPMR PASC collaborative, she has co-authored several guidance statements on managing Long COVID symptoms, including fatigue, dysautonomia, and cardiovascular complications.

Audio engineering by True Media Solutions https://truemediasolutions.ca/