Reduction of long COVID symptoms after stellate ganglion block: A retrospective chart review study, 2024, Deborah Duricka et al

Highlights•

• SARS-CoV-2 infection can cause a long-standing complex constellation of symptoms (Long COVID)
• Stellate Ganglion Block can improve symptoms of Long COVID
• The mechanism by which SGB improves Long COVID symptoms remains unknown
• SGB may correct neuroimmune and/or brain-body axis dysfunction in Long COVID

Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has left millions of individuals with a host of post-viral symptoms that can be debilitating and persist indefinitely. To date there are no definitive tests or treatments for the collection of symptoms known as “Long COVID” or Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC).

Following our initial case report detailing improvement of Long COVID symptoms after sequential bilateral stellate ganglion blockade (SGB), we performed a retrospective chart analysis study on individuals treated with the same protocol over the course of six months (2021−2022) in our clinic. Patients self-reported symptoms on a 10-point scale as part of optional patient follow-up using an online survey. After one month or more following treatment, patients reported striking reductions in Fatigue, Worsening of Symptoms following Mental and Physical Activity, Memory Problems, Problems Concentrating, Sleep Problems, Anxiety, and Depression. Loss of Taste and Loss of Smell in some individuals did not respond to treatment, likely indicating structural damage following infection.

This study suggests that neuromodulation may provide relief of Long COVID symptoms for at least a subset of individuals, and provides support for prospective studies of this potential treatment.

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What Is a Stellate Ganglion Block?

The stellate ganglion is a collection of nerves found in front of the sixth and seventh cervical vertebrae of the neck. They are part of the sympathetic nervous system and supply the face and arm. These nerves are not involved with feeling or movement, however, after a nerve is sensitized by trauma, infection or other causes, the sympathetic activity can cause pain.

A stellate ganglion block is an injection of local anesthetic into the front of the neck. It can be used to diagnose the cause of your pain or to treat your pain.

 

I am glad that the abstract states how the data was collected. It saved me the energy of reading further.

 

New Publication by Solve Ramsay Grant Researcher Dr. Deborah Duricka Studies Efficacy of Stellate Ganglion Block in Reducing Post-Exertional Malaise and Improving Sleep and Neurological Function
https://solvecfs.org/new-publicatio...nd-improving-sleep-and-neurological-function/