Long Covid sufferers can experience a wide range of neurological symptoms, ranging in severity. One lesser documented effect is the inability to successfully regulate body temperature, which can disrupt many other body functions.
Thermoregulation
The way your body manages your internal temperature – is controlled by an area of the brain called the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is like a control centre in your brain, regulating many processes such as appetite, thirst, temperature, hormones and energy. It’s thought that long covid may impact the nerve and blood supply to the hypothalamus, therefore compromising some of these functions.
While there is still more research to be carried out on the effects of long Covid on the ability to regulate temperature, we are seeing a trend in case studies to suggest this is a trend in Long Covid patients, which can be distressing to the individual and impact ability to manage daily tasks.
Our founder, Dr Ben Sinclair, who suffered from Long Covid himself, found that symptoms of poor thermoregulation featured in his Long Covid journey – sometimes even measuring at different temperatures on opposite sides of his body. Other patients have experienced issues with deep cold or hot flushes and a higher than normal body temperature, similar to patients with perimenopausal symptoms. Microcirculation may also be affected by microclotting causing poor flow to small vessels in the skin which would normally help regulate body temperature.
At Dr Finlay’s, we understand the devastating and long lasting impact Long Covid can have, and how difficult it often is to receive the care you need. Dr. Finlay’s offers a specialist online Long Covid clinic, supporting patients with temperature regulation and other Long Covid symptoms through bespoke therapeutic plans tailored to your personal circumstances.
Using our expertise in specialist medications, sleep, energy, nutrition, stress management, and lifestyle integration, your personalised management plan includes proactive steps to bring equilibrium and promote strength, confidence and wellbeing in an upward spiral of recovery.
If you have a Long Covid diagnosis, or believe you may be suffering from Long Covid symptoms, don’t hesitate to get in touch to see how our team of clinicians can support you.