Conversations About LONG COVID

The pandemic really got the nation crippled. I'm sure you're absolutely glad it's over, but for a percentage of the population.. the nightmare of debilitating conditions continue. Over coffee and tea this morning at One World Deli in Timog Avenue, we got to talk amongst those involved with the case of people living with LONG COVID. 

According to Dr. Camilo Road.Jr "Long Covid happens after the actual Covid itself. It's liberation day compared a few years ago where almost everyone was afraid of it. It's effects at the time of illness can be seen not just in the respiratory system, but also the immune system, therefore damaging other parts of the body. It caused death for a lot of people, and normalizing the body takes a lot of time after the cure. The fight may have subsided, but we do see mortality in 1%. The scare is still there, even in other illnesses that have higher mortality rate, some of which still suffer from it. Whether by scarring, virus fragments, while no longer contagious, still suffer from it. Long COVID happens 10-20 percent of those who had it, much higher in females and those who had it multiple times including the unvaccinated. Manifestation includes Fatigue, Headache, Attention Disorder, Hair Loss, Dyspnea. If you got it after being Covid, then that is Long Covid. Patients are taught to breathe more actively, avoid triggers, identify new limits and follow accordingly."

Roel Balignasay who's had Long COVID for 4 years told us "The chronic pains and silent battles just changed a bit of me being a man of action. In April, I thought I had flu, but was coughing intensely and felt I ran a marathon. I spent a total of 30 days in the hospital and couldn't eat because my throat was in pain, I also had muscle atrophy so I couldn't walk, had widespread body pain, got so confused and had brain fog. I had palpitations, but it was a health crisis. I also had diabetes, kidney stones, 2 blockages in my heart and 42 percent calcified.  I couldn't sing during those times, but this year, I can but have a hard time sustaining it due to fatigue and a scar on my larynx caused by laryngitis and GERD. I understood that's where the difficulty in breathing was coming from. It was a case of Long Covid according to my pulmonologist. I was told to check my heart rate, it was high when I was just sitting. Before I could work 12 hours, but now even talking was hard. I resigned from work, resorted to health supplements and machine, you may want to ask me about that. Work was strenuous, I look healthy but it was that, stigma. In the end, I had to change homes. Recently I joined communities, and tell people about it. It's a public health issue, and research needs to be done for it. I hope people listen with intent, the challenges had happen to me and some of my friends would tell me there's no Covid anymore. I stopped talking to people because of it and had depression."

Author of My Long Covid Journey: The Saga Behind the Smile Ms. Becks Galvez Tan told us a bit about her life as she says "I am a diagnosed Long COVID patient, fighting for my life 4 years ago where lungs were damaged, had hair loss, difficulty swallowing, sensory overload and the symptoms came and went, like a rollercoaster. The COVID-19 damaged not the lungs, but other organs as well. I felt better when I read other patients had 147 symptoms, but now I am tied to a oxygen concentrator because of a paralysis in my right diaphragm. From being able to walk easily before, I can only do it 2 minutes now. Every 3 minutes I had to rest going up the stairs, I had to rest for 40 minutes here before I could talk. It's just hard to believe that now I couldn't lift a finger. The fatigue is real, and the pain is excruciating. Now I recover faster compared before, but it is like dying in so many ways. I don't see my old self, I am in disbelief but I have moved on and focus on what I can do. In between crashes, I wrote all of it in The Saga Behind the Smile. It is available on digital for free, you can read it, I am living testament that you can still live despite suffering in silence. I don't want to spend my life in misery, I now learned to pace myself, I rest and do something on other days. It's just hard for people to understand. It's different everyday so I can't tell if symptoms are going to happen or not."

It's an E-Book, which you can download via bit.ly/MyLongCovidJourney.

Right now they are creating support groups and want to reach other Long COVID patients to they can help in not just advocacy but find government help. Get in touch with them, it's not okay to suffer in silence, you CAN get help today. If you need more information about it, please refer to World Health Organization channels.and the Department of Health.

Team VICE GANDA Delivers Moving Performance in Annual MAGPASIKAT in "It's Showtime!"

It's so nice to see things getting back to normal and as a yearly tradition, "It's Showtime!" just recently presented their annual "MAGPASIKAT" portion wherein the hosts are pit against each other presenting different causes, in an entertainment form. Judging this year is award winning actor Joel Torre, Miss Universe Catriona Gray, Eheads drummer and composer Raymund Marasigan, and punong hurado Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano.

Amy Perez, Karylle and Kim Chiu presented dance and numbers with sports champions, gold medalists signifying WOMEN EMPOWERMENT. Kim did super good in her dance numbers and the time she did a bit with a drum set. They also had 4th IMPACT together with them, they did good with their theme WOMEN AND GOLD. It instigated goosebumps, almost made the judges cry, had really solid impact.

Ogie Alcasid and Vhong Navarro did a skit with their kids, played by them too. Their theme is S-kid Games. They did several traditional games via 5x5 squid games style, projected it on the floor while they danced. It was like bonding without the need for gadgets or internet. Ogie of course sang his heart out with several TNT singers and champs, Ebe Dancel, El Gamma Penumbra, and Asia's Songbird Ms. Regine Velasquez-Alcasid. Jhong Hilario made a cameo and also sent Ogie and Vhong flying. Their message was about the goodness of fun, games, camaraderie, enjoying life's freedoms.

Jhugs, Teddy and Ion had comedy skits with Joey Marquez. They had a couple madlang pipol choose how the story would start, how it ends. Dance numbers like Matrix ensued, Ion was on a Ducati. It was nice because it was interactive. They included their heads being wrapped around by a snake, so it really wasn't easy. It didn't show much, but it was really good entertainement. Maybe, it's about conquering fears. Also, it was Ion's birthday, and he wished for the pandemic to end and his relationship with Vice Ganda to become even stronger. (that was a super sweet moment for Ion to say that!)

Then comes Vice Ganda, Ryan Bang and Jackie. They call themselves TEAM MAGIINA. They started with a comedy skit and talked about their preparations. Then they swithced places with viral online sensations Pipay and Whamos. They also had YouTube star, and sexiest Ivana Alawi, wifebeater clad Darren Espanto. Theirs had a sad start because they implied Vice had passed. Vice was the one who told them to prepare, do all these things, and Jackie got really into character. She was emotionally distraught when she heard the news. The lyrics went "Who would be there to catch you if you fall?". They had Kyla in the number, with Ryan Bang actually playing the piano in the background (we didn't know he could do that!). Team Vice was super dramatic, and was a discovery of talents. It also talked about the pandemic, on how we couldn't have the chance to say goodbye to people, how it hurt us, how we move on from it and still have hope that one day soon, we will meet. And properly, say goodbye. Vice also sang a few songs in this number, but what was moving was the last one when she had a string quartet, a choir at the end. Vice sang "See You Again" which had pretty hurtful lyrics. What broke my heart even more was the actual people who lost people because of COVID writing their messages on white balloons and reliving their memories with them. It was so touching, timely and so sad. Vice brought her cause to front, and how thankful they are for the lives they (those who passed) shared. The ending was so nice as they released white doves and balloons on the rooftop of ABSCBN. It was an epic sight! They came prepared!

In the end, 3rd and 4th Runners won 50,000 pesos. It went to Team Jhugs Teddy and Ion and Team Vhong and Ogie. First Runner Up went to Team Vice, Ryan and Jackie and won Php 100,000 for it. The Grand Champion was Tyang Amy, Kim Chiu and Karylle.

Vice says "We dedicate our performance to our chosen charity The Ruth Foundation. The Ruth Foundation for Palliative and Hospice Care will be the recipient of our prizes. They cater to COVID and Non COVID cases and help them with medical care, pay for bills, death care which has crippled families during this pandemic." Vice adds "We just escape everyday, this pandemic, I lost 4 of my super closest friends. When they were telling me about what we planned to perform, I insisted to do something stronger, something personal. I questioned how I paid for their hospital bills, was it enough to make their burials nice, and how I wasn't able to go to their wake even if they extended their schedules for me because I was their best friend. I'm doing this for the people who weren't able to do that because of the pandemic. We need to understand that it's not our fault, let's face the hurt, understand it, let go and say "Don't worry about us, we are okay and we will see you soon!". Even if we want to hug them, we can't, but I'm here to tell you, you're not alone. God Bless everyone!"

Movie Producer Rina Navarro's Kids (3 and 8) Contracted COVI-19

The Producer of epic film Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo's and Unfiltered Skin Care CEO Rina Navarro just recently posted that her kids Rain (8 years old) and Theo (3 years old), has tested positive for COVID-19. 

Her kids are currently at their residence and showed no symptoms (asymptomatic). They are now doing tests while self isolating. They are on their way to recovery. Though the kids have not left their home, they have traced their driver who have gone home his family on a weekend, who then infected their kasambahay, who got the kids at risk. The family is wishing for everyone's recovery and hope others who have people who work from outside do extreme caution because getting this virus is no joke. She also would like to send prayers for kids who are undergoing the same fate as hers and follow protocols set by IATF and the government.

Ms. Rina adds “I'd like to ask people to PLEASE stay at home. Try as much to not allow visitors at home because we are all vulnerable. It's not just the old folks, but even kids and babies are affected. Remember, getting vaccinated doesn’t mean you are totally immune or won’t be able to carry the virus. Please wear your face masks and face shield especially if you have kids and elders at home.”

So if you're still hesitating to get vaccinated, please see this happens to kids too. They need to be safe, so do the right thing!

Before Going Out, Protect Yourself with Airqueen

 

Having been a designated "ALAY" in my home means I would be the only one to go out and buy groceries, food, medicine, government offices and other essentials during this pandemic. I strictly follow government and health agency protocols including the wearing of masks which has proven effective during the previous lock downs that the government has imposed. I choose my weapons wisely so if one of the requirements to go out is a face mask, I get the best one in the market. The most popular shopping app in the country is Shopee and Airqueen Philippines distributes quality South Korean developed washable and reusable nano-fiber filtered mask. These are commonly known as N94 or N95 masks which are primarily for good for everyday use. It's what I absolutely need because it filters out 95% of fine airborne particles and keep what I breathe in quite safe.

In South Korea, I've seen several KPOP and KDrama stars wear this Black SOOM LAB Hyper Purifying Breathing Mask. What I like about it is that, I think it's way better than the ordinary surgical mask often worn by many outside. This is designed well, provides much coverage which I'm very comfortable with to wear when I go out and do errands. You can purchase the black one here which I actually did last night so I have supplies for the next few weeks. If you prefer a white one, you can order the SOOM LAB Hyper Purifying Breathing Mask here. They also have the CleanWell KF94 Respiratory Nano Mask available in different colors here which means you can pretty much mix and match which doesn't sacrifice quality, style and for what it's worth, I look pretty good in the Red Wine color too. Best of all, they're making sweet deals of up to 72% discount on your favorite Airqueen masks this Shopee 5.5 Brands Festival (which means it's the best time to get one!).

Now I don't know about you but if cases go low on certain days we are asked to wear masks, I call it a good thing. It's not just to protect yourself, but your family, your friends, who might not have the same health condition like YOU. During these times, it pays to be considerate. We should have all the things that could protect us from the dreaded virus who has claimed the lives of millions of people. It's cool because I can get it off Shopee, so if you don't have that yet, make sure you install it from the Google Play Store or App Store.

I'm making my family protected with Airqueen today.

Romantic Flick "Dito at Doon" Deserves a Part 2

 

Arlene Esguerra and Carlo Cabahug truly didn't start in the wrong foot. The pandemic put them both in a predicament that they didn't want to endure, much like us today who's been in our homes for a year or more already. 

 

Love at this time? Maybe, but these consequences of their interaction on social media would say otherwise. Actually, an impossibility. During this time, Len got what she deserved, which is real talk from her friends. She spent most of the time talking to plants and making viral dalgona coffee, things we did during the start of the pandemic. Direk JP Habac framed this quite nicely, really close to reality. Len's Mom, her friends were essential to the story. They confirm things, they put things she does into perspective and get her grounded. Cab on the other hand was the typical Filipino OFW story, well almost. You'll see his story unfold during small talks with Len as they discover each other. They might need to drink every once in a while to release inhibitions, and that's kinda fun if you think about it.

I like the romantic angles, on how their once impossible relationship might become something. In an eve where people are supposed to be apart, here they are making landi and its a good thing. It felt good for the soul, but without titles, will that affect them?

 

 

This film touches on so many realities. It talks about our dreams, our loved ones, a little hope, some drama, home sickness, our self worth, anger and frustrations. What is there for us when all is in shambles?  Janine Gutierrez and JC Santos did good in this film, I hope they do a part 2 because honestly, the thing deserves one. This is under TBA Studios and WASD Films. You can watch it via KTX.PH, Cinema76@Home, iWantTFC, Upstream or Ticket2Me. 

 

You can stream it digitally today!

Make Clothes, Fabrics, COVID Free with NATUCAIR

Being clean these days is not just a need, but a necessity. With the pandemic, we're all confined in the comforts of our own home and try to live day by day, to survive and hope the numbers go down in the country. While that ain't happening yet, we follow government protocols, safety procedures that make sense, and just about anything that would make sure we won't be causing the spread of it in our own homes. 

You've got your alcohol, hand wash and cleaning stuff for your body, but when it comes to fabric, what do you do? Well for starters, you use things like Natucair. This fabric and linen spray from Earth Corporation just disclosed their ground breaking research about it ridding of 99.9% of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in suspension. The research was done in Japan Textile Products Quality and Technology Center in
Kobe, Japan. Yuya Suzuki of Earth Corporation's Research and Development team says "We areso happy for our team of scientists and researchers who made this groundbreaking confirmation about Natucair. Filipinos should have options of products that help them stay safe from the dangers of COVID-19. We’re glad Natucair is on that list!"

With the recent announcements of daily cases that surged to 9,838 (which is super alarming!) as announced by the Department of Health, we all have to make sure we have every base covered. If a person goes out for errands, or get their clothes compromised whether its polyester, poly-cotton and 100% cotton. This also applies for healthcare workers who need to take home and wash their clothes or their inner wear. Natucair takes care of what you wear against bacteria, germs and viruses.

These days, you can never be sure so taking extra precaution against the dreaded virus is always welcome. If you haven't had one, maybe it's time you get Natucair.

Diabetes Management During the Pandemic

There have been a lot of things that have been worsened during this pandemic and one of them is the onslaught of diabetes, heart ailment during lockdown and COVID (which makes matters worst).


In Italy, EpiCentro reported that diabetes has accounted for 30.5 percent of comorbidities (of which hypertension and cardio-cerebrovascular disease is included) among COVID-related deaths.The Philippines on the other hand has 77% of COVID-related deaths of the same according to the World Health Organization report.

According to Dr. Jeremy Robles the current President of the Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism "The presence of diabetes can defintely make one’s COVID infection worse. Controlling it will be up to the patient because it is on how they would adhere to doctors adivse as this is both chronic and a lifetime disease."

His advise? He calls this "Apat Dapat", which is 4 simple ways to manage diabetes:

Proper diet
Exercise
Regular medication
Regular check-ups

All of which, actually makes total sense. Eating healthy makes your blood sugar normalize. So does working out because it makes your body have less insulin resistance. Medication is vital to make sure you don't get complications with uncontrolled blood sugar. Regular visits to your doctor can make those tests understandable so you know when you are making progress. They can also prescribe if you need changes in your medicine, so you won't be too hard for your kidneys. So make sure to take care of yourselves even during these times. 

/*This particular article has some components from the Kontrolado Ko, Diabetes Ko campaign by MSD in the country. They are pushing for patient adherence to medication and treatment especially with diabetes patients in the PH.

LianHua Qingwen Now Available in the PH

Just got off the press conference of LianHua Qingwen, a traditional Chinese medicine which was recently approved by the FDA in the Philippines. This is not a treatment for COVID-19 but as indicated on FDA release "This is a traditionally used herbal product which helps remove heat-toxin invasion of the lungs, including symptoms such as fever, aversion to cold, muscle soreness, stuffy and runny nose."

This is manufactured by Shijiazhuang Yiling Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd in China. Yin Ling Chang, Dr. Cong Wei and Philippine Archipelago's Philip Tan-Gatue were present in the occasion.

Yilin Pharma's Vice President Zhang Yunling says "Our company has a 28 year history and 10000 employees. It is one of the 500 top companies in China and in 2019 we have won the technology innovation award. Lianhua Qingwen continues to expand in the global market and has been in Canada, Mozambique, Romania, Thailand, Ecuador, Singapore and a lot more countries has also approved this traditional Chinese medicine. It has been promoted in different aspects and treatments overseas. We are using modern technology to promote traditional chinese medicine while remaining to have good safety measures. This has also been published in the Journal of American College of Cardiology and research has proved this improves conditions from light COVID-19 symptoms. Currently, 9 ANDA products have been approved in the US market and soon in other countries.This approval in the Philippines and our partnership in Philippine Archipelago will help a lot of Filipino citizens."

 

Dr. Cong Wei the President TCM Division of Yiling Medical Research Institute remarks "TCM has rich clinical practice and theoretical summaries in the treatment of epidemics. They also have played an important role in the treatment of epidemics, based on syndrome differentiation and has unique advantages in the treatment of emerging infectious diseases. It takes a long time to research and develop drugs and vaccines. Traditional Chinese Medicine has been used for thousands of years, we have combined the treatment done of Epidemic Warm Diseases from Qing Dynasty and the Cold Damage from Han Dynasty in these Lianhua Qingwen Capsules. This has been proven effective in fighting influenza, and treatment costs are lower. LHQW also inhibits weightloss, improves condition of inflamed lungs. IT also significantly improves clinical symptoms and clinical cure rate. It also shows good trend in the reduction of severe cases according to studies. From 2008 to 2020, this has been recommended by China's authorities for efficacy over 20 times."

 

Philip Nino Tan Gatue, Clinical Assistant Professor of the UP College of Medicine says "Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complete Chinese Medical System. It has its own theories to health, pathology, physiology, diagnostics and treatment. It has various modalities such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, manual manipulation, and breathing exercises. Herbs are seldom used alone, it is used in combination with other herbs. A chief herb, a deputy herb to strengthen the chi, an assistant herb to mediate side effects and an envoy herb that leads to the desired area of effect. We have 13 ingredients, but we have to find the active ingredients. We know the molecules, we know the genes that affect things, but we have to match which affects the formula. The SARS experience was a good point in the integration of Chinese and western medicine. COVID-19 has external invasion of wind heat, constrained Qi and fire in the lungs, Deficiency in vital Qi, dampness, heat, fluid/pus (toxin) and blood stasis."

The LianHua Qingwen will be sold in select Southstar Drug Branches nationwide. They will be available in Mercury Drug and Watsons soon. Make sure you only purchase them in legal channels because they won't be able to promise efficacy if you don't get it from the right source. It costs Php 288 per box (SRP) and check the box as it is in English. The instructions will also be in English including the leaflets, the blister pack as well. The box will contain the generic name, the label and barcode, you will see if it is registered there otherwise they will be illegal. This could help a lot of people certainly especially those who have symptoms. But of course you have to get tested by Doctors still.