5 Things Integrative Medicine Wants You to Know About the COVID-19 Pandemic
Since mid March, our lives have drastically changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our world has come to a halt as medical workers on the front lines are working tirelessly to care for patients infected with the virus. We have transitioned Philadelphia Integrative Medicine to virtual so we can continue caring for our patient community. News outlets have been saturated with information about the virus. It is hard to sort through all the headlines when we are trying to meet our most basic needs. We have compiled a list of the key facts we want you to know to stay safe during this pandemic.
You can prevent the spread: Following the stay at home orders put in place is key. The virus needs hosts to spread. Spreading takes place when individuals infected come in contact with healthy individuals. Sadly, it is hard to know when someone is infected due to the virus’s varying incubation time. This means if you spend significant time with an infected individual or touch an object with droplets containing the virus, you are likely to contract the virus. Staying at home stops contact with others who may spread the virus to you or someone in your immediate quarantine group. We recommend picking a small group to remain with for the duration of the quarantine. Avoid going to public places. There are ways to acquire food and other essential supplies without leaving with the right planning. Check out Dr. Tetlow’s video for more information.
You should support your immune system: The good news is there are many things you can do to support your body’s own immune system. We highly recommend taking advantage of the free and simple lifestyle measures that naturally support your immune system and overall health. This means getting enough sleep, eating nutrient dense foods, continuing to move your body, and keeping tabs on your mental health. Reach out to your provider to learn what supplements might be best to support you.
Be prepared with essential medical supplies: The two most important items to have are a thermometer and pulse oximeter to determine if the individual has a fever and the saturation of oxygen in their blood. These are the best ways to monitor symptoms of COVID-19. Other useful supplies include: disinfecting products, masks (can be homemade), and hydration beverages. We urge you to only buy what you need to keep our supply chain systems functioning as best they can.
Have a plan in place if someone in your home becomes sick: In integrative medicine, we have a focus on prevention and foundation. We help patients build a foundation of health to prevent disease. Applying this same concept here can prepare your family should someone in your circle become symptomatic. It is good news that the overwhelming majority of cases are mild and can be treated at home. The essential things to do are continue to eat nutrient dense foods, stay hydrated and rest. Figure out where the person can be isolated in your living space. Determine which hospital you will go to if it becomes necessary. Being prepared allows you to stop stressing about what could go wrong and focus on healing.
Everything will be ok: We will get through this together. We are here for you. The best thing you can do right now is be gentle with yourself. Everyone is going through similar situations. Spend some time each day focusing on what you do have rather than what is missing. Meditate for 10 minutes. Play games with your quarantine partners. Make the most of this unique time we have where we can be safe at home.
PIM wants to hear from you! What are you doing to stay positive during the pandemic? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Being Well with Philadelphia Integrative Medicine
Let us help you find your inner still point in the storm -- how to steady your mind now and ongoingly. Cooped up at home? Got some challenges? This webinar will help you find inner calm now and when you need it. Mind body medicine is an essential aspect of Integrative and Functional Medicine. Commit to your mental health and enjoy healthier relationships and increased peace of mind. Dr. Tetlow is a trained mindfulness teacher and shares how to simply and easily achieve a less reactive mind body state, where so many more resources are available to you. Join her and the whole PIM provider team for our next virtual Wellness Webinar on Wednesday April 22, from 8-9pm EST. Registration required!
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If you or your loved one needs help, perhaps you are suffering from the effects of ongoing stress, mood or hormone imbalance, including thyroid imbalance, or you or they are already working with a doctor to address a condition but want a more comprehensive, empowering approach schedule your a 20 minute free consultation or an appointment with Zoie Phillips, MSPA, PA-C today! Not quite ready to schedule and have questions, quickly get in touch with us today!