Microscopically Assisted Discectomy and Spinal Decompression Surgery
August 6, 2019Arthroscopic Surgery of the Shoulder
December 24, 2020
Updated 10/10/22:
Covid-19 has changed quite a bit in the last 2.5 years. The current variants appear to be far less deadly than the earlier variants. We also have many treatments available today. The following, are simple information which anyone can follow to help protect their respiratory system.
We have learned so much about preventing the spread of respiratory infection in the last 2.5 years. One of the most effective means of preventing spread of the germs is to avoid hand shakes, and using hand sanitizers or washing hands whenever in frequent contact with potentially contaminated surfaces such as shopping carts. While well fitting N-95 masks can help prevent spread of viruses, other masks are not as effective.
Taking vitamin D3 and keeping your vitamin D level above 55 will not only help your bones but also boosts your immune system. Vitamin D appears to be the most effective and the simplest way to prevent the serious Covid-19 respiratory involvements that usually causes hospitalizations and deaths. Vitamin D protects your lungs against infections (the cold, the flu, Covid, etc.)!
Populations with high incidence of vitamin D deficiency have significantly higher mortality rates from Covid-19 than populations with lower incidence of vitamin D deficiency. Populations with higher vitamin D level did better during the pandemic than the populations with lower vitamin D level (mortality wise). People with higher vitamin D levels have a significantly lower severity of illness and improved survival. High dose vitamin D therapy early after diagnosis of Covid-19 infection, also significantly reduces severity of illness and the mortality. If you do not know your vitamin D level and do not take any supplements, your vitamin D level is likely sub-optimal.
If checking your vitamin D level is not feasible at this time, then take 5,000 units (125mcg) of vitamin D3 daily for the next 3 months and then check your level. Keep in mind that our vitamin D level typically goes down every winter as there is less sun exposure. Also, if you don’t take vitamin D supplements, then you are likely to be deficient. Read more about vitamin D benefits.
Turmeric may also be of benefit in reducing the infection severity in inflammatory conditions, including respiratory infections. Turmeric powder which is readily available in the supermarkets has a natural anti-inflammatory effect which not only helps arthritis symptoms but may decrease the inflammatory response seen in patients who become sick from respiratory infections. There are also Turmeric capsules that you can buy as well if you don’t want to use the powder as a food additive.
Both of these products are inexpensive over the counter products, been around for ages, and have no known harmful effects with reasonable use. Just be aware that Turmeric is a mild blood thinner and should be stopped a few days before surgery.
In addition, taking a low dose of zinc (about 12.5mg daily roughly equivalent to 100% of the daily requirements) would likely help your immune system, though overdosing on Zinc may be actually counterproductive. Zinc works as an antiviral agent in the human cells by preventing the replication of RNA-dependent viruses such as the cold and the Covid variants.
Quercetin which is found in many foods (red onions, blue berries, apples, oranges, and many green vegetables) helps get the zinc into your cells and allows it to do its work there in preventing the viral replication.
Also, don’t forget vitamin C. Take at least 250mg of vitamin C every day. It may help you fight an infection and there is no harm in taking it. There are many fruits and some vegetables which are high in vitamin C, including oranges and other citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, and broccoli.
In Summary, take vitamin D, vitamin C, Zinc, and maybe Quercetin to protect yourself. Healthy Bone & Body is a daily nutritional supplement containing your daily requirements of zinc, vitamin D and vitamin C. Healthy Bone & Body contains many other vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants that our bodies need. Some people may need additional daily vitamin D than the 4,000 units included in these vitamins.
Disclosure: The above recommendations are based on my own review of numerous studies, web posts, and recommendations including studies on different populations as it related to vitamin D deficiency and Covid-19 mortality. I follow these recommendations myself.
If you believe that you have been exposed to Covid-19 or other respiratory viruses or have any of the signs or symptoms of the infection, then contact your doctor immediately. Early intervention is the key to optimal outcome. There are numerous other treatments available for treatment of respiratory infections, including Covid-19 which are beyond the scope of this blog. Please note that a lung specialist may recommend many other medical treatments based on the type of infection that one may have.
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