Wheeling Hospital has started a rehabilitation program for patients dealing with the after-effects of COVID-19.
Post-COVID symptoms vary, but may include shortness of breath, fatigue, generalized or localized weakness, cardiac deficits, decreased ability to concentrate, and memory issues.
"These symptoms can result in difficulty returning to your everyday life and participating in daily activities such as dressing, bathing, grooming, toileting, cooking, cleaning, shopping, driving, returning to work or school, swallowing, communicating or walking," said Suzanne Holsen, occupational therapy director.
The rehabilitation process actually begins in the hospital, based on current needs/deficits, and continues with transition to home health or the Outpatient Rehabilitation program.
"Outpatient Rehab may be the first step for those recovering from COVID at home," Curt Neel, director of physical therapy, said.
The program addresses weakness, decreased balance, decreased activity tolerance, swallowing difficulties, speech deficits, cognitive impairments, limb numbness, pain, dizziness, difficulty walking and decreased ability to participate in meaningful everyday activities. In addition, telehealth services allow treatment to be completed from home, if desired.
"We provide a multidisciplinary approach with physical, occupational and speech therapy," Sheila Archer, senior director of rehabilitation services, said. "The individualized treatment is based on patients' specific goals, needs and deficits."
Those who are experiencing post-COVID symptoms and believe they may benefit from the program should discuss it with their physician. For more information, call one of Wheeling Hospital's outpatient rehabilitation departments: Occupational Therapy at 304-243-3195; Physical Therapy at 304-243-3307; or Speech Therapy at 304-243-3770