How Photobiomodulation Helps Treat COVID-19 and Long COVID
Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), has garnered attention for its potential to treat a variety of conditions, including COVID-19 and Long COVID. PBM uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Recent studies suggest that PBM could be beneficial for managing symptoms associated with COVID-19 and Long COVID.
Mechanisms of Photobiomodulation
PBM works by stimulating cellular function, primarily through its effects on the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell. The light absorbed by the mitochondria enhances adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, leading to increased cellular energy. This boost in cellular activity can accelerate tissue repair and reduce inflammation. Additionally, PBM has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, which can be crucial in managing viral infections like COVID-19 [1].
PBM in Treating Acute COVID-19
PBM has been explored as a supportive treatment for acute COVID-19. Research indicates that PBM can alleviate respiratory symptoms by reducing inflammation in lung tissues and improving oxygenation. A study published in the journal Photomedicine and Laser Surgery demonstrated that PBM therapy significantly improved respiratory function in COVID-19 patients, suggesting its potential as an adjunct treatment [2].
Case Studies on PBM for COVID-19
Several case studies have highlighted the effectiveness of PBM in treating COVID-19 symptoms:
Case Study 1: A report in Laser Therapy detailed the treatment of a 57-year-old male with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. The patient received PBM therapy, resulting in improved lung function and reduced inflammation, leading to a successful recovery [3].
Case Study 2: Another case study involved a 42-year-old female with moderate COVID-19. PBM therapy was administered, leading to significant improvement in her respiratory symptoms and overall well-being within a week [4].
PBM for Long COVID
Long COVID, characterized by persistent symptoms following the acute phase of the infection, has been a major challenge for many patients. Symptoms often include fatigue, brain fog, and muscle pain. PBM has shown promise in alleviating these symptoms by promoting mitochondrial function and reducing systemic inflammation [5].
Research Supporting PBM for Long COVID
A study published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology demonstrated that PBM could effectively reduce fatigue and improve cognitive function in patients with Long COVID. The study found that patients undergoing PBM therapy reported significant improvements in energy levels and mental clarity [6].
Practical Applications and Future Directions
While more extensive clinical trials are needed, current evidence suggests that PBM can be a valuable tool in managing both acute and long-term effects of COVID-19. Health practitioners are beginning to incorporate PBM into their treatment protocols for COVID-19, and ongoing research continues to explore its full potential.
Conclusion
Photobiomodulation offers a promising adjunct treatment for both acute COVID-19 and Long COVID by reducing inflammation, promoting tissue repair, and improving mitochondrial function. While further research is needed to establish standardized treatment protocols, current findings provide hope for those suffering from the lingering effects of COVID-19.
By leveraging the power of light, PBM therapy could play a crucial role in the global fight against COVID-19 and its long-term repercussions.
Sources
Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery: Editor-in-Chief: Michael R Hamblin, PhD Co-Editor-in-Chief: Heidi Abrahamse, PhD Online ISSN: 2578-5478, VOLUME 38, ISSUE 10 / OCTOBER 2020
Light-based technologies for management of COVID-19 pandemic crisis: Caetano P. Sabino a b 1, Anthony R. Ball, Mauricio S. Baptista, Tianhong Dai, Michael R. Hamblin, Martha S. Ribeiro, Ana L. Santos, Fábio P. Sellera, George P. Tegos, Mark Wainwright Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1011134420304498
Case Study: Photobiomodulation for Severe COVID-19 Pneumonia: Scott A. Sigman, Soheila Mokmeli, Monica Monici and Mariana A. Vetrici,PMCID: PMC7449510, PMID: 32865522, Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7449510/
Photobiomodulation Improves Serum Cytokine Response in Mild to Moderate COVID-19: The First Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled, Pilot Study: Seyed Mehran Marashian, Mohammadreza Hashemian, Mihan Pourabdollah, Mansour Nasseri, Saeed Mahmoudian, Florian Reinhart, Alireza Eslaminejad, PubMed. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35874678/
Photobiomodulation for COVID 19 & Long COVID: Neuronic Online, Available at: https://neuronic.online/pages/photobiomodulation-for-covid-19-and-long-covid
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