Even though they have recovered from the acute effects of COVID-19, some continue to suffer a wide range of symptoms. Some estimates that 77 to 23 million patients – A staggering number- continue to suffer years after infection. Collectively these symptoms are called “long COVID”.
Studies have shown successful outcomes following a stellate ganglion block (SBG).
There is emerging evidence that stellate ganglion blocks are useful for more than PTSD! Since the pandemic, many lost their ability to smell or suffer anosmia or suffer Long Covid. A recent study suggests Stellate blocks are effective in restoring smell and treating brain fog. If you suffer from Long Covid, consider this treatment option.
Defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Long COVID includes new symptoms that persist for three or more months post-infection.
Studies have found post-COVID-19 symptoms in 15.1% of people 12 months after the initial infection, with prevalence rates sometimes as high as 91% [2–4].
The mechanisms are poorly understood, through most individuals can clear the virus and recover without long term issues. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 virus infects nearly every organ of the body including the brain. Years after infection, some patients feel fatigue, “brain fog”, depression, parosmia/anosmia (lack of smell) that never improves.
Individuals with long COVID may have symptoms severity from mild to debilitating:
We know an SGB increases blood flow to the brain. To explain the improvement seen in patients with Long COVID after a SGB, it’s theorized that this helps resolve autonomic nervous system malfunction and resolves a destructive feedback loop.
Stopping this process may lower the patient’s risk for long COVID-related diseases like diabetes, hypertension, depression and obesity.
After learning about long COVID, do you think you’re experiencing this? If so, speak to your doctor and ask about treatment with a stellate ganglion block. We offer cutting-edge treatments, including stellate ganglion blocks, to help manage long COVID symptoms. Schedule an appointment today and start feeling better!
The injection is near the base of the neck and near the front.
Typically take less than 10 minutes to complete.
Your position on your side, and after the skin is cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic, the needle is placed gently and guided under ultrasound imaging. The ultrasound shows the needle and stellate ganglion, and makes the procedure safer!
PTSD symptoms typically improve within minutes of completing the procedure.
Yes, and it’s our job to explain them thoroughly!
Fortunately with ultrasound guidance, the risks are minimal. The major risk is if the local anesthetic may cause a seizure. This can be avoided by seeing the blood vessels and using minimal volume. This is rare occuring less than 1 in 10,000 procedures.
There are 2 common side effects:
The Stellate ganglion is connected to blood vessels in the face, nose, and muscles in the eye. Once local anesthetic is injected into the Stellate Ganglion there are some changes that occur called a Horner’s syndrome. There is facial flushing, nose stuffiness, and eyelid drooping.
This proves the injection was performed correctly. These side effects are temporary.
The second side effect is a cough, also temporary.
No. The use of stellate ganglion block for Long COVID is still considered to be an “off-label” and will not be reimbursed by any insurance carriers. However, the therapy does fall under the umbrella of a medical expense and we can accept payment from an HSA or FSA account.
$700 per injection for in office, light oral sedation
$850 per injection for IV sedation in a hospital setting
Risks -however rare – include cough, seizure, collapsed lung, numb arms lasting for hours, temporary weakness or numbness from neck down, nerve damage, and bruising at the injection sire.
This is an expected side effect that comes from numbing the stellate ganglion!
Changes that can be expected include:
A droopy eyelid, bloodshot eyes, a stuffy nose, and a skin temperature increase on the injected site.
There may be light discomfort since the doctor needs to press on your neck to locate the injection site. A very small needle is used. The local anesthetic may sting. We can offer you an oral sedative prior to the procedure.
The procedure usually takes 5 to 10 minutes to complete. An IV will started after you sign a consent form. Your vitals are checked pre and post procedure. Skin temperature monitors will be placed on both of your hands. A DSB is usually done with the patient lying down, head turned to the left. After the neck is cleaned, the doctor will use an ultrasound to scan your anatomy.
After the injection, your neck may feel tender or bruised. You may also notice a bit of unbalance. If your arms become numb or heavy, you may use a sling until the feeling passes – usually around 4 to 6 hours. Pain medications may also be prescribed.
After the procedure, you will be advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery.
Results can be felt as quickly as 30 minutes following the procedure and can last for years. This immediate reduction in symptoms, along with a long-lasting sense of calm, can also provide a better environment for additional treatment opportunities like psychological counseling.
Libertas Mind staff will call to check on you.
Integration follow up sessions with our Health coaches are important for getting the best outcome. Health coaches are one of the key check in points determining what type of future therapy – medical, interventional or psychosocial is the right option for you.
Learn more about the different treatment options available.
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