Indeed, humanity is going through one of the toughest periods in its existence and life is facing the worst upheaval ever known to mankind.
Many have lost their dear and near ones to the tiny, invisible virus, and most of them have not got a chance to see them to bid them a final farewell.
However, returning to the pre-corona era is possible though delayed, for which every single person has a role to play, according to experts.
But the most desired help and support that one can extend even from a distance these days is undoubtedly the emotional support, helping him or her come out of the pandemic trauma.
People fall depressed; they experience other psychological issues, anxiety and panic caused by the Covid-19. Fear of the disease and death of friends, relatives and colleagues are other issues that people have to live with these days. Hence, a helping hand or a word of affection is worth a treasure as it is capable of helping people dream of a happier and healthier tomorrow.
"Most of the patients and also their families and friends require support in different ways. Depending on the severity of the illness -- whether they are hospitalised or required ICU admission, weather they had any family support during the illness or not -- psychological support is very crucial," says Dr Ramla al Qassabi, a senior medical specialist.
"Some patients especially after ICU admission require physiotherapy for sometime till they regain full physical as well as mental functionality while some others who become oxygen dependent require a lot of support from the caregivers. In all cases, a call or a word of support, saying 'we are with you' will make a clear difference and they are seen coming back to life easily," she added.
Dr Rohil Raghavan, Regional CEO, VPS Oman (Burjeel and Lifeline ), sharing his experience, said that post-Covid rehabilitation centres have started in many countries.
"Primarily, these rehabilitation centres are meant for those who were in ICU and consists of four main areas," he said.
These four rehabilitation centres are for:
1. Respiratory - to improve the lung function
2. Neurological - to get over weakness and improve cognitive functions
3. Psychological support - depression, anxiety etc
4. Laryngeal care - Tracheostomy care and Laryngeal injury care
"Emotional support at home by spouse, children and other family members, besides friends is of paramount importance. One should consult the specialist if he still needs help, we have post- Covid clinics to provide help," says Dr Dilip Singhvi, Specialist Internal Medicine, Apollo Hospital.
Many patients after completing the medical treatment for Covid infection continue to have symptoms in post-Covid period ranging from few weeks to months depending upon the severity of the infection and the person's immunity.
"After recovering from Covid many people feel weak, easily fatigued. One common symptom with which they approach me is palpitations. Rest assured, most of these will gradually subside and not to be worried about. However, even after full recovery if someone persistently has shortness of breath and palpitations it’s better to get a medical follow-up," adds Dr Benny Panakkan, Medical Director of Badr Samaa Hospitals.
The persistence of some of the post-Covid symptoms leads to a lot of anxiety, stress and fear in patients, and remember, they need a lot of support, counselling and motivation both by the doctor and the family or friends.
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