Recovering Hope: Owen Sound’s Long COVID Clinic Offers Lifeline

Owen Sound long COVID clinic helping patients recover

A Lifeline for Long COVID Patients in Owen Sound

Nurse practitioner Michelle Lanteigne runs a dedicated clinic for long COVID patients at the Owen Sound Family Health Team. While COVID-19 may be in the rear-view mirror for many, Lanteigne continues to provide care for individuals who are still experiencing symptoms of the lingering pandemic virus.

Everyday Struggles of Long COVID Patients

In an interview, Lanteigne emphasized that COVID is still present and that many people are unaware of why they are not feeling like themselves again. The long-COVID clinic, which she runs with an occupational therapist and a respiratory therapist, aims to provide support and strategies to help patients feel better.

Diagnosing Long COVID

Diagnosing long COVID can be challenging, as there is no universally accepted definition or test for the condition. Lanteigne adopts the National Health Service England’s definition, which identifies it as having COVID-19 symptoms for four to 12 weeks, followed by the development of signs and symptoms that last more than 12 weeks. The clinic focuses on symptom-based diagnoses and treats patients who report symptoms such as profound fatigue, cough, brain fog, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, loss of taste and smell, hair loss, and various other symptoms.

Addressing the Impact of Long COVID

The World Health Organization estimates that 10 to 20 percent of individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 may develop long COVID. The long COVID clinic in Owen Sound aims to address the impact of this condition, helping patients regain their function and improve their daily lives. In the first year of the clinic‘s operation, 56 people were referred to the program. Of these, 31 patients were unable to work due to symptoms when admitted, with 14 of them eventually returning to work.

Improving Symptoms and Quality of Life

Treatment at the long COVID clinic focuses on resolving symptoms and improving patients’ overall quality of life. The average patient begins the program two to four months after contracting COVID and continues for six to nine months. Lanteigne notes that the most significant improvements typically occur within the first year. The clinic utilizes various approaches, including inhalers, medications, and strategies to improve sleep and energy levels, to address individual symptoms.

Support for Patients and Mothers

Women outnumber men in the program, particularly mothers who often struggle to balance the demands of work and family. Lanteigne emphasizes the importance of rest and reducing activity for recovery, acknowledging the difficulties faced by patients juggling work and caregiving responsibilities.

Multidisciplinary Approach and Patient Support

The long COVID clinic in Owen Sound takes a multidisciplinary approach, involving a team of healthcare professionals. Patients receive support, treatment, and referrals to specialists as necessary. The clinic also provides assistance with navigating applications for worker’s compensation, employment insurance, and disability benefits when needed.

A Call to Prioritize Vaccination

To prevent long COVID, Lanteigne emphasizes the importance of vaccination. While receiving three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine can help reduce the risk, it does not guarantee full protection against long COVID. Vaccinations continue to be available for free at select pharmacies.

The Significance of the Owen Sound Long COVID Clinic

The Owen Sound Family Health Team’s long COVID clinic serves as a lifeline for individuals struggling with persistent symptoms of COVID-19. By providing comprehensive care and support, the clinic aims to help patients recover and regain their quality of life. The clinic‘s services extend beyond medical treatment, addressing the unique challenges faced by long COVID patients and providing valuable resources.

Disclaimer: The content of this report is based on the information provided in the article “Owen Sound long COVID clinic helping patients recover” by Scott Dunn, published on June 15, 2023. Information and details may have changed since the time of publication.