COVID-19 took the globe by surprise, and many of us had to adapt to new normals before we had the chance to let it all soak in. In the blink of an eye, many of us had transitioned to working from home, isolating ourselves from friends and family, and not leaving the house without a mask and sanitizer on hand.
Now we may be past the initial shock of a global pandemic, but we’re still trying to find more effective ways to prevent and manage the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Let’s take a look at the infection, risks, and ways to manage SARS-CoV-2.
Table of Contents:
1. Understanding the SARS-CoV-2 Infection
1.1 Symptoms
2. What Puts You at Higher Risk?
2.1 Age
2.2 Chronic Lung Problems
2.3 Heart Disease
2.4 Diabetes & Obesity
2.5 Cancer or Certain Blood Disorders
2.6 Weakened Immune System
3. How to Avoid or Manage COVID-19
3.1 Using CBD as an Inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
4. More to Come on CBD and SARS-CoV-2
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1. Understanding the SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Coronaviruses are a group of viruses capable of inducing illnesses—such as the common cold, for example. They are also responsible for more serious illnesses, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (or SARS).
The year 2019 introduced a new form of coronavirus linked to a disease outbreak originating in China. This virus, also known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is known to cause severe respiratory issues and health complications for higher-risk individuals.
The CDC and WHO have been monitoring the pandemic closely and sharing updates on their websites, including some helpful information regarding the prevention and management of the virus.
Many of us have been told to social distance, wear masks, and keep our hands free of germs. What else can be done to prevent or inhibit COVID-19? Before we get into that, let’s quickly go over some of the symptoms associated with this virus.
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1.1 Symptoms
Consider getting tested if you are experiencing multiple symptoms below:
- Fever or chills
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion/runny nose
- Nausea/vomiting
- Diarrhea
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If you’re experiencing more serious symptoms, seek emergency medical care. The symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent pain/pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pale, blue, or gray-colored skin, lips, or nail beds
You’ll want to know this.
2. What Puts You at Higher Risk?
Some individuals are more likely to experience severe health complications than others, depending on various factors. Those who appear to be at the highest risk are those with pre-existing medical conditions and the elderly. Here’s some more insight as to who should be extra careful.
2.1 Age
The symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 seem to get more serious with age, although this is not to say that only older folks will contract the virus. However, individuals of any age can catch COVID-19. In the United States, it’s said that around 81% of fatalities caused by the virus have been noted in individuals over the age of 65. The risk becomes even greater for the elderly when other health conditions are at play.
Here’s the thing:
Nursing home residents are a major target for this virus since these people often have multiple medical conditions in combination with advanced age. COVID-19 also appears to spread relatively rapidly when people are living in such close quarters.
Another reason age can make SARS-CoV-2 more dangerous is because many older individuals suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. This disease can make it difficult to remember the necessary precautions that have been suggested to prevent the spread of infection.
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2.2 Chronic Lung Problems
As we mentioned before, COVID-19 is a form of SARS. This indicates that this infection will often isolate and target the lungs. This is bad news for anyone already facing serious issues with their lungs.
You’ll be more likely to have severe complications from COVID-19 if you have chronic lung issues, such as:
- COPD
- Lung cancer
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Pulmonary embolism
- Moderate-to-severe asthma
Certain medications commonly prescribed for these conditions will often weaken your immune system, which is something to keep in mind.
If you have moderate-to-severe asthma, you’ll want to avoid triggers if you contract COVID-19. Asthma triggers vary significantly from each individual; however, pollen, dust mites, tobacco smoke, cold air, strong odors, even stress can cause asthma attacks. If you have SARS-CoV-2, you’ll probably want to steer clear of these triggers to avoid complicating things further.
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Remember:
Smoking and vaping can also cause damage and inflammation to your lungs and inhibit the immune system. These increase your risk of complications from COVID-19.
2.3 Heart Disease
Different types of heart conditions can increase your risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms. Some of these conditions include:
- Congenital heart disease
- Heart failure
- Coronary artery disease
- Cardiomyopathy
You should always take your medications as prescribed. Having high blood pressure may increase your risk of health complications from COVID-19 if you don’t control your blood pressure via medication.
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2.4 Diabetes and Obesity
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes have been linked to increased risk of serious symptoms from SARS-CoV-2. Also, being overweight or obese increases this risk.
Obesity and diabetes impact proper immune functioning, while diabetes itself increases the risk of infections. This risk could potentially be reduced by managing blood sugar levels and by continuing your medications and insulin.
If you’re overweight, eating a healthy diet and staying active can help you feel better and can help your immune system function better.
2.5 Cancer or Certain Blood Disorders
Individuals who currently have cancer are at a higher risk of experiencing serious complications from COVID-19. Risks can vary from person to person and depend on the type of treatment you are receiving.
This is interesting:
Blood conditions such as sickle-cell and other types of anemia can also increase COVID-19 complications. This disorder is inherited and causes red blood cells to become sticky, hardened, and shaped like a “C.” Deformed blood cells die earlier, so oxygen is not properly transported throughout your body. It can also produce painful blockages in small blood vessels.
Another inherited blood disorder is called thalassemia. Thalassemia is when the body cannot produce enough hemoglobin; this also affects how well our red blood cells can carry and transport oxygen.
2.6 Weakened Immune System
Those who have compromised immune systems—or undergo treatments that can weaken your immune system—are also at a greater risk of COVID-19 becoming dangerous. A few examples would be:
- Cancer treatments
- Organ transplants
- Bone marrow transplants
- HIV/AIDS
- Long-term use of prednisone or similar drugs that affect the immune system
If you are someone who has a weakened or compromised immune system, it would be best to take extra precautions to avoid the virus. Routine doctor appointments should be delayed or taken via telehealth. You could also consider having your medications mailed directly to you so you don’t have to go into the pharmacy—or use a drive-up option if available.
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3. How to Avoid or Manage COVID-19
We’ve all been trying to stay six feet away from others; some of us have been wearing masks; and many of us have been getting vaccinations and boosters. However, it doesn’t appear that there is much advice offered when it comes to handling SARS-CoV-2 once you’re already infected.
We’re aware that we are supposed to self-isolate, but what can we do to help ourselves when we are already sick? Well, some research surrounding cannabidiol may shed some light on the situation.
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You’ll want to hear this.
3.1 Using CBD as an Inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 Infection
The findings of one study in particular indicated that CBD was able to function as a SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor at the early stages effectively. CBD and its metabolite, 7-OH-CBD, can effectively block the viral replication of coronavirus. [1]
Small doses of extremely pure CBD began acting soon after the virus entered cells in test tubes. It did not prevent the cells from becoming infected, but it prevented the virus from making copies of itself. Similar effects were found in infected mice. [2]
This is cool:
Individuals who have been using CBD consistently were also known to have fewer incidences of infection than others, something that was specifically noted in the study. (Click to tweet)
However, this isn’t considered quite enough evidence.
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These recent studies have sparked tons of interest from the media, as they have shown pretty promising results amid this global pandemic. However, it should be noted that these experiments were done in laboratory settings.
This means that researchers aren’t necessarily suggesting CBD is a treatment for SARS-CoV-2, but these studies have made an incredibly strong case for further clinical trials. This will expand our knowledge on whether cannabidiol is an effective way to prevent and inhibit the virus that’s taken over the globe.
All of this being said, it wouldn’t hurt to conduct some of your own research! If you’re going to try using CBD to help manage your COVID-19 symptoms, make sure you go with a reliable and trusted brand. Consider trying SOL’s Pure CBD Tincture in natural or cinnamint flavor.
Take a look at some of these reviews:
“It's been a part of my diet for about 2 years. That says it all.” - Sandra K.
“I find a dramatic change for the better in my sleep. Deeper sleep, and waking up rested. It’s been years since I’ve slept like this. I also find ease to common work anxiety. I think I’m a customer for life! Thank you.” - Thomas B.
Incorporating pure CBD tinctures into your daily regimen can not only help boost your immune system but can also make you more resilient against viruses like SARS-CoV-2. (Click to tweet)
Some other benefits of CBD tinctures include:
- Reduced inflammation (reduced lung inflammation may be beneficial in COVID-19 cases) [3]
- Improved quality of sleep
- Lowered anxiety and stress levels (may also help ease feelings of isolation or depression during the pandemic)
- Reduced physical aches and pains
- Improved brain health
- Balanced gut health
Cannabidiol has so much to offer, and in this day and age, we could always use something to promote general health and well-being. If tinctures aren’t exactly what you had in mind, you could always choose from many other CBD products that offer the same great benefits. (Click to tweet)
Capsules are a discreet, simple way to take your dose of CBD as well.
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There are even products that cater specifically to skin issues, for pets, formulas designed to improve sleep, and CBD-infused topicals.
4. More to Come on CBD and SARS-CoV-2
While the current studies focused on CBD and SARS-CoV-2 have sparked some excitement, it’s important to remember that CBD is not yet considered an official treatment for the virus. There will most likely be more studies and controlled trials conducted soon.
In the meantime, the benefits of CBD far outweigh the information we have yet to learn, and incorporating it as a part of your daily routine can boost your health and well-being. (Click to tweet)
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