Learn how light therapy proves effective in aiding COVID-19 recovery. This post explores the therapeutic benefits of light therapy in alleviating symptoms and promoting healing in COVID-19 patients.
Even though we’ve been in the pandemic for over a year, we are still learning about the disease. No one could have prepared us for the impact of this virus, and COVID-19 has changed our lives forever.
It is caused by the coronavirus, and while symptoms are similar, people respond differently. Most commonly, patients report fever, dry cough, and extreme fatigue. Other frequent symptoms include loss of smell and taste, joint pain, diarrhea, conjunctivitis, and headaches.
Scientists and clinicians have found that respiratory problems are the main concern. The immune suppression seen in COVID-19 can allow pneumonia to develop, and there may also be long-term effects.
So far, only one peer-reviewed study has reported long-term symptoms: 143 survivors from Rome, most of whom had not required hospitalization, were assessed at least 60 days after infection. Forty-four percent reported a worse quality of life; persistent fatigue (53.1%), breathlessness (43.4%), joint pain (27.3%), and chest pain (21.7%) were the most common complaints.
Treatment has evolved quickly, and vaccines are now available, yet supporting the immune system remains important. Adequate vitamin intake is still advised. Some people also look for non-invasive adjuncts, which has led to interest in light therapy.
Red light therapy is a non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical approach. Safe wavelengths penetrate the skin and may stimulate cells to produce more ATP, supporting cellular energy metabolism.
Our cells naturally rejuvenate; light therapy may simply assist this process, potentially increasing the number of healthier cells over time.
Researchers have begun to explore whether light therapy could help COVID-19 patients; early laboratory work suggests it might reduce viral replication and support cell recovery.
Pre-clinical studies indicate that light therapy may activate mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS), leading to lower expression of viral spike protein and restored proliferation of infected cells. A noticeable reduction of viral load in the trachea has been reported in experimental models, hinting that light therapy might lessen the chance of secondary respiratory complications such as pneumonia.
WHO: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) PubMed: Search COVID-19 long-term symptoms
A modest drop in C-reactive protein was seen within seven days of UVA therapy. This suggests that light therapy may help break down damaging proteins in cells. deconstruction of damaging proteins in our cells.
Photo-disinfection is already used to reduce harmful bacteria during surgery; intranasal light therapy is a related approach. A non-toxic dye is placed inside the nose, activated by light, and researchers then measure whether the illumination inactivates the virus. Early-stage COVID-19 has been studied this way.
The cited trial used a multi-LED UVA catheter inserted through the nasal passage to deliver light. Our multi-LED devices let you select the wavelength that fits your protocol.
In that study, UVA was given once daily for 20 minutes over five consecutive days. Patients first received 30 minutes of oxygen; schedules elsewhere vary, but most protocols suggest 10–15 minutes of daily exposure.
Coronavirus remains a threat, yet light therapy offers a non-invasive option you can discuss with a clinician. Led Mask designs high-quality devices intended for home use; some models hold MDASAP certification.
Whether you want immune support or a gentle adjunct for patients with COVID-19, light therapy may ease certain symptoms. Contact our team for details.
This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
