MeRT for COVID-19 after Care
According to an article published by Johns Hopkins Medical Center, individuals who have undergone treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) may experience a condition known as Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS). This syndrome can give rise to persistent physical, mental, and psychological complications that can last for an extended period of time.
The effects of COVID-19 extend beyond physical symptoms. The impact of the virus varies from person to person, with some experiencing severe illness requiring hospitalization or even death, while others only exhibit mild symptoms. However, as time progresses, we are discovering that individuals can continue to experience symptoms long after testing negative for the virus. Research indicates that the lingering effects of COVID-19 predominantly affect the brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys. Regardless of hospitalization status, potential complications may include:
- Breathlessness
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Systemic inflammation
- Changes in cognitive function
- Memory impairments
- Persistent brain fog
- Cognitive decline
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Substance abuse
- Altered eating patterns
- Suicidal thoughts
It is important to note that these symptoms can manifest even in individuals who had mild initial illness or were not hospitalized.
With the widespread availability of vaccines, the impact of COVID-19 is gradually diminishing. However, it is important to recognize that not everyone has received vaccination, and there remains a significant number of individuals who continue to experience lingering effects of the virus. These after-effects have profoundly impacted their overall health and quality of life. Additionally, the medical community has faced challenges in addressing the needs of individuals, often referred to as “long haulers,” who are enduring prolonged symptoms and complications. The complexities surrounding the treatment and alleviation of these after-effects have posed a puzzling task for healthcare professionals.
COVID-19 Has Affected Everyone
COVID-19 has impacted nearly everyone, regardless of whether they contracted the virus or not. The pandemic has caused widespread economic disruption, leading to prolonged job loss for many individuals. The implementation of social distancing measures, isolation, and the loss of familiar routines have significantly impacted global mental health. Moreover, the heartbreaking reality is that many people have lost loved ones to the illness and have had to navigate the difficult experience of leaving family members alone in hospitals to recover. An early study published by the NIH (National Institute of Health) in June 2020, highlighted an increase in the prevalence of the following mental health conditions:
- 31% increase in depression/anxiety
- 13% increase in substance abuse
- 26% increase in “stress-related symptoms”
- 11% increase in thoughts of suicide
The statistics from June 2020 revealed a doubling of the mentioned mental health conditions compared to the pre-pandemic period. Considering the worsening trajectory of the pandemic since then, it is reasonable to assume that these numbers have likely continued to rise even further as we enter 2022.
Although precise data is not available at this time, it is evident that individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions faced a higher risk of being impacted by the pandemic. Moreover, the significant toll on mental health caused directly or indirectly by COVID, including conditions such as Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Insomnia, and more, has not received sufficient attention as a “mental health pandemic.”
Discover the assistance you need at The Brain Treatment Center Houston!
The Brain Treatment Center Houston offers advanced and non-invasive treatment options like Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy (MeRT). Our clinic has been successfully using MeRT for years to address brain dysregulation associated with various conditions, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Traumatic brain injury/post-concussive syndrome
- PTSD
- Substance abuse
- Brain fog/cognitive issues
- Autism
- Parkinson’s disease
- After-effects of stroke
- ADHD/Learning Disorders
With our cutting-edge therapies, we are dedicated to helping individuals find relief and improve their overall well-being.
How Can MeRT Help?
MeRT has demonstrated efficacy in treating a range of conditions beyond mental health, including dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke recovery. It offers a holistic approach that addresses both mental and physical conditions, such as brain inflammation resulting from COVID-19 infection. While MeRT cannot cure permanent brain damage, it can help alleviate inflammation, dysregulation, and associated symptoms, providing long-term effects.
Every individual’s brain is unique, just like their fingerprints. Our treatment protocols are tailored to each person based on a comprehensive analysis of their brain wave patterns using the qEEG. This analysis helps us identify specific areas of the brain that require attention and restoration of healthy communication and function.
Once the qEEG assessment is complete, we gain insights into the brain’s functioning. Using a set of scalp magnets, we deliver gentle magnetic signals to the brain, stimulating neuromodulation and facilitating the reorganization and restoration of brain waves. This process enhances the function of neurons and promotes overall brain health.
Common Benefits Experienced from MeRT **
MeRT treatment offers a range of potential benefits that patients commonly experience:
- Enhanced mood
- Improved concentration and focus
- Increased relaxation
- Better sleep quality
- Improved memory function
- Heightened mental clarity
- Enhanced stress-coping abilities
- Extended attention span
- Increased motivation
- Reduction in cravings (related to alcohol or drugs)
- Improved emotional stability
- Enhanced sociability
- Boosted self-esteem and self-confidence
- Increased energy levels.
** It is important to note that individual results may vary, and the extent of improvements can differ among patients. The observed benefits are contingent upon strict adherence to our treatment regimens and active monitoring. We cannot guarantee specific outcomes for each individual.
The MeRT Process
MeRT treatment is a non-pharmaceutical and non-invasive approach that has shown promising results in various conditions.
Numerous studies have revealed abnormal brain wave patterns in individuals with conditions such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, and more. By utilizing a magnetic field, MeRT treatment aims to rebalance and stimulate brain function. This advanced technology incorporates sophisticated diagnostics and imaging techniques to customize the treatment plan for each individual. Factors such as the specific location, frequency, and power of the magnetic stimulation are tailored to address the unique condition of each person. Consequently, MeRT has the potential to enhance brain communication and synchronization, leading to significant and long-lasting improvements.
The initial research on MeRT has primarily been conducted by the U.S. Department of Defense, with a focus on aiding veterans who have returned from combat. A notable article published in Defense One delves into the DOD’s research findings, highlighting the benefits of MeRT for individuals suffering from TBI, PTSD, and MDD. Furthermore, additional studies have been carried out in the private sector, exploring the application of MeRT in treating various other conditions.
What to Expect
To begin the process, we will arrange a comprehensive testing appointment for the initial analysis. During this appointment, we will collect your new patient paperwork, and our chief neuro technician will conduct a thorough evaluation that includes a qEEG and EKG. These diagnostic procedures allow us to identify any dysfunction or communication issues in your brain.
Typically, this appointment lasts around 45 minutes. However, if you are seeking treatment for your child with autism, please allocate approximately an hour for the appointment. If you decide to proceed with treatment, we will then schedule your assessment period.
If you’re not ready to commit to an assessment period or prefer to have a consultation and review of your qEEG and EKG results to determine your candidacy for treatment, we offer an alternative option. You can come in for a qEEG/EKG and consultation with our clinician, where you can see your results and discuss the next steps before proceeding with the assessment period.
The second appointment, which focuses on your clinical evaluation, lasts for 45 minutes. During this time, you will meet with our physician, who will address any inquiries you may have and discuss the relevant treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Assessment Period
The treatment assessment period spans two weeks, allowing us to assess and monitor your response to the treatment. At the conclusion of this assessment period, we will conduct a follow-up qEEG to observe any changes in your brain activity.
Following the two-week assessment period, patients will undergo an initial qEEG/EKG evaluation and proceed with treatment sessions for two weeks. Treatment sessions are scheduled from Monday to Friday during the first week and from Monday to Thursday during the second week, resulting in a total of nine sessions. Following these sessions, we will conduct another qEEG to evaluate the progress made during the treatment.
Continuing Treatment
Upon completion of the assessment period and observing positive progress both clinically and through the qEEG, we will proceed to schedule subsequent two-week treatment periods. It is important to note that each treatment period lasts for two weeks, requiring you to be able to stay in the vicinity of BTC Houston or the surrounding area. For optimal and long-lasting results, we highly recommend a complete six-week treatment duration, which includes the assessment period.
The comparison between the initial and second qEEG/clinical evaluations will determine your response to the treatment, and you should start experiencing noticeable changes in your well-being during this time. To achieve optimal and lasting outcomes, we strongly advise a total of six weeks of treatment, incorporating the assessment period.
Since every individual’s brain is unique, the treatment protocol will be tailored to your specific needs based on the qEEG/EKG data from your brain and the particular condition being addressed. Generally, the effects of treatment can have a long-lasting impact, potentially lasting a lifetime. However, some individuals may prefer occasional follow-up treatments as needed. It is essential to recognize that each person is different, and treatment protocols may vary. Your provider will schedule regular follow-up EEGs and meet with you to assess your progress accurately.
Additional Information
During a typical treatment session, which lasts approximately 45 minutes, you will be seated in a chair while the neuro-technician administers the treatment near your scalp using a hand-held magnet. The magnet delivers gentle magnetic impulses for six to eight seconds per minute. While undergoing the treatment, you may experience a slight sensation, but it is not painful or uncomfortable.
It is important to note that the effectiveness and improvements observed are a result of our diligent and closely monitored treatment regimens. However, it’s essential to understand that results may vary depending on the individual and are not guaranteed. Additionally, the outcomes of therapy can differ from person to person. In general, the duration of MeRT therapy directly influences the longevity of the changes experienced.
For further details, please get in touch with our New Patient Coordinator.
We understand the feelings of isolation, frustration, and hopelessness that patients and their families may experience when dealing with brain disorders. However, there is a ray of hope. The MeRT treatment protocol has proven to be a transformative approach, enabling patients to restore brain function, regain control over their lives, and discover newfound optimism.
We empathize with your situation and are committed to providing guidance throughout the decision-making process. Our aim is to ensure that you are well-informed about the potential benefits of MeRT for you or your child.
Many of our clinicians and technicians have personally undergone MeRT treatment and have witnessed the remarkable results it can achieve. Their own transformative experiences fuel their dedication to facilitating your healing journey.
To address your specific inquiries about the potential of MeRT to assist you, our New Patient Coordinator is available. She will attentively listen to your concerns, provide reassurance, and offer insights tailored to your needs. Additionally, she can assist you in scheduling your appointments at the clinic if you choose to proceed with treatment.
