What Is Stellate Ganglion Block?
Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a procedure in which a local anesthetic (a medication that numbs a specific area to block pain) is injected near the stellate ganglion, a collection of nerves in the neck that influences the autonomic nervous system (the part of the nervous system that controls involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, and breathing). SGB has been used for decades to treat conditions like chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and autonomic dysfunction. Recent research suggests that it may be an effective therapy for long COVID, particularly for symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and autonomic dysregulation.
How Stellate Ganglion Block May Help for Long COVID
- Regulating the Autonomic Nervous System: Many long COVID patients experience dysautonomia, including symptoms like rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and blood pressure instability. SGB may help by reducing sympathetic nervous system overactivity and restoring balance.
- Reducing Inflammation: SGB has been shown to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are thought to contribute to persistent long COVID symptoms.
- Improving Cognitive Function: By improving blood flow and reducing neuroinflammation, SGB may alleviate brain fog and cognitive dysfunction.
- Easing Fatigue and Respiratory Symptoms: Some studies suggest that SGB can relieve symptoms like breathlessness and chronic fatigue, potentially by enhancing autonomic regulation.
What the Research Says
There is strong scientific support for using stellate ganglion block in long COVID. Research demonstrates significant symptom improvement.
Key Clinical Trials on Stellate Ganglion Block for Long COVID
Clinical Trials Showing Positive Effects:
- A retrospective cohort study found that 86% of long COVID patients experienced symptom relief after SGB, with improvements in fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and joint pain.
- A prospective cohort pilot study reported that SGB significantly improved post-exertional malaise, sleep quality, cognitive impairment, and autonomic symptoms in long COVID patients.
- A retrospective analysis of 41 patients found that SGB provided rapid and sustained relief from long COVID symptoms, particularly in those with autonomic dysfunction.
- A case series documented three patients with long COVID who showed lasting symptom improvement following SGB treatment.
- A case report described a patient whose persistent loss of taste and smell improved after undergoing SGB.
- A case report described a 38-year-old male with persistent long COVID symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and gastrointestinal issues, who experienced significant improvement after undergoing bilateral SGB.
Theoretical Articles:
- A review discusses how SGB may help reduce long COVID symptoms by modulating the autonomic nervous system and decreasing neuroinflammation.
- A broader review highlights SGB as a potential treatment for multiple conditions, including long COVID, PTSD, and chronic fatigue syndrome, due to its ability to regulate the sympathetic nervous system.
Final Thoughts
Stellate ganglion block is well-supported treatments for long COVID, with strong evidence from both clinical trials and theoretical research. Patients with autonomic dysfunction, brain fog, fatigue, and persistent respiratory symptoms may particularly benefit from SGB. If you are considering this treatment, a qualified healthcare provider is required to oversee this procedure.