Episode 9 - Innovative Research with Dr. Amal Amer
In this episode of the Long COVID Clinical Podcast, hosts Andrew Schamess and Anita Chopra discuss recent research on Long COVID at Ohio State University. They are joined by Dr. Amal Amer, a Professor of Microbial Infection and Immunity, and Dr. Heba Amer, who works in Dr. Amal's lab. Dr. Amal shares her personal experience with Long COVID and details her research on the inflammasome and caspase-4/11, proteins linked to severe inflammation and cognitive issues in Long COVID. The discussion highlights the relationship between these proteins and the inflammatory response, potential coagulopathy, and how this research could lead to new treatments. Dr. Heba Amer describes using an advanced behavioral testing system for mice to study cognitive dysfunctions related to Long COVID. The findings offer promising avenues for drug discovery and a deeper understanding of Long COVID's pathology. Additionally, future research plans and the importance of correlating mouse model data with human samples are discussed. The episode concludes with optimism about ongoing and future research efforts.Edited and Produced by Christopher Chiu
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Episode 8 - Immunological Perspectives
This episode of the Long COVID Clinical Podcast, hosted by Drs. Anita Chopra, Tiffany Walker, Andrew Schamess, and Aaron Friedberg, features Dr. Andrew Ayers, a specialist in allergy and immunology. The discussion focuses on the immunological processes involved in long COVID, including immune dysregulation, immune deficiency, and the role of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). Dr. Ayers explains the complexities of the immune system's response to long COVID, potential treatments like high-dose antihistamines and other therapies, and the impact of COVID and vaccinations on immune reactions. He also delves into patient phenotypes, drug allergies, and the gut microbiome's influence on immune responses. The episode concludes with a comprehensive review of MCAS management strategies and emphasizes the challenges faced by clinicians treating long COVID.
Edited and Produced by Christopher Chiu
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Episode 7 - Role of Integrative Medicine
In this episode of the Long COVID Clinical Podcast, we engage with Dr. Iman Majd, an expert in integrative medicine, to discuss the complexities of long COVID. They explore various symptoms, including fatigue and brain fog, and delve into integrative approaches that combine conventional and alternative treatments. Dr. Majd emphasizes the importance of personalized care, the role of supplements and herbal remedies, and the significance of an anti-inflammatory diet. The conversation highlights the need for patience and collaboration between patients and healthcare providers in the journey towards recovery from long COVID.
Edited and Produced by Christopher Chiu
In this episode of the Long COVID Clinical Podcast, Dr. Hector Bonilla discusses the similarities and differences between Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME-CFS). He shares insights from his clinical and research journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management strategies for these post-viral conditions. The conversation highlights the need for better research, patient advocacy, and the exploration of potential treatments such as low-dose naltrexone and Abilify. Dr. Bonilla stresses the significance of listening to patients and acknowledging their symptoms as real, while also addressing the gaps in current understanding and the urgency for more clinical trials.
Edited and Produced by Christopher Chiu
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Episode 5 - Brain Fog
In this episode of the Long COVID Clinical Podcast, the focus is on subjective cognitive impairment, commonly known as brain fog, in long COVID patients. The guests, Susan Bowman-Burpee and Katlyn Schultz, discuss the typical presentation of brain fog and the initial steps in managing patients with this symptom. They emphasize the importance of taking a comprehensive history, conducting a physical exam, and targeting interventions based on the clinical profile. They also highlight the role of rehabilitation psychology in helping patients adapt and cope with cognitive symptoms. The episode concludes with a discussion on the prognosis for long COVID patients with cognitive symptoms and the strategies that can contribute to greater success and satisfaction in treatment and recovery.
Edited and Produced by Christopher Chiu
Long COVID is a complex condition with a wide range of symptoms affecting multiple organs of the body. Primary care physicians often face challenges in understanding and managing Long COVID due to the lack of clear guidelines and evidence-based interventions. This podcast aims at educating clinicians on how to diagnose Long COVID, manage various symptoms, and how to best support patients who have this oftentimes devastating condition. We will talk about the latest research and report on new discoveries as they happen.