Welcome to Paging Dr. Gupta! This podcast is dedicated to addressing your health questions and turning them into meaningful conversations. Today, we will tackle some intriguing inquiries that you, our listeners, have sent in. Our producer Kyra, who shares my Midwestern roots, is here to kick off our discussion with the first question.
Kyra brings us a timely question from Candy in Oregon, who is curious about the statistics related to individuals experiencing long-term breathing problems after recovering from Covid-19. It’s been five years since the World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a global pandemic, making this inquiry particularly relevant.
Candy, what you are describing falls under the umbrella of long Covid, previously referred to as long haulers. This condition represents an entirely new class of diseases caused by the novel Covid virus. The strict definition of long Covid includes symptoms that persist for at least three months following infection, with some individuals reporting symptoms lasting six months or longer. For many, these symptoms can last for years and vary significantly in severity.
Common symptoms include fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, sleep disturbances, and issues with taste and smell. These symptoms are not just trivial inconveniences; they can profoundly disrupt daily life. Research indicates a correlation between the severity of the initial Covid infection and the likelihood of developing long Covid. Individuals who were sicker at the onset or had underlying health conditions, such as being immunocompromised or over the age of 65, may be at a higher risk. However, it is critical to note that many young people and those who had mild initial infections also report persistent symptoms.
Despite the increasing awareness of long Covid, societal discussions surrounding this new disease class remain limited. It's crucial that we continue to highlight and address long Covid to foster better understanding and support for those affected. Furthermore, individuals who did not experience classic long Covid symptoms may still face worsening of pre-existing conditions like migraines, lung diseases, autoimmune disorders, or chronic kidney diseases after a Covid infection.
Now, let’s dive into some numbers. Based on survey data, approximately 30% of Covid infections result in long Covid symptoms. Recent surveys indicate that about 30% of adults report having symptoms lasting three months or longer. This statistic has remained consistent over the years, even five years into the pandemic. Specifically regarding breathing problems, up to 40% of those with long Covid exhibit persistent respiratory symptoms. These can range from mild exercise intolerance to severe breathlessness, even after minimal exertion.
Research suggests that scarring or thickening of lung tissues following a Covid infection may be driving these symptoms. Engaging in breathing exercises can be beneficial for many individuals, helping them regain lung capacity and return to their normal activities. However, it’s essential to avoid further Covid infections, as the repercussions on lung health could be severe.
Moving on to our next topic, Kyra presents a question from Laura in Houston, Texas, who is interested in the potential health implications of switching from traditional deodorants to natural alternatives. Many individuals have begun making this change, and Laura wants to know if there are legitimate health concerns linked to conventional deodorants, particularly regarding cancer.
Thanks for your question, Laura! It's important to clarify the distinction between deodorants and antiperspirants. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes. Deodorants neutralize body odor by targeting bacteria on the skin, while antiperspirants contain aluminum salts that temporarily block sweat glands to reduce perspiration.
Many concerns surrounding antiperspirants stem from the presence of aluminum and its potential link to breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Ongoing research aims to investigate these claims, but current studies have not established a direct correlation between aluminum-containing antiperspirants and these health conditions. Prominent health organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Association, have concluded that there is no strong evidence connecting antiperspirant use with increased health risks.
Natural deodorants typically use ingredients like baking soda, arrowroot powder, and essential oils to combat odor but do not prevent sweating. Their effectiveness can vary based on individual body chemistry. While marketed as healthier options, there is no substantial evidence indicating that conventional deodorants are harmful, which raises the question of whether natural alternatives are genuinely healthier.
Interestingly, wearing deodorant isn’t strictly necessary, as sweat itself is odorless. The characteristic smell arises when bacteria break down sweat on the skin. If you don’t sweat much or are comfortable with your natural scent, you may not need deodorant at all.
Ultimately, Laura, the choice to switch to a natural deodorant is yours to make. Consider your preferences, budget, and the ingredients in these products. Understanding the science behind these options can help you make an informed decision about what works best for you.
Thank you for joining us on this episode of Paging Dr. Gupta. We hope you found our discussions on long Covid and deodorant choices insightful. Remember, your health questions are what drive this conversation, so keep them coming!
