Non-pharmacological approach to anxiety due to COVID-19

ABSTRACT

Introduction: In this publication, it is described the clinical case of a 59-year-old female patient reporting anxiety-related symptomatology, generally worsening postpandemic and post-SARS-CoV- 2 infection. Clinical Case Description A 60-year-old female patient reports an heightened state of anxiety as a consequence of the pandemic and after being infected by SARS-CoV-2. Reported symptoms are heart palp, tachycardia, chest pain and increased sweating. Since the appearance of those symptoms, she has been prescribed extended release anxiolytic medication by her primary care physician, such as 0.5 mg benzodiazepines (one tablet per evening). The patient underwent two osteopathic treatments. A questionnaire was given to assess the patient's perceived state of anxiety before the first treatment and after the second one. The patient indicates a decrease in anxiety-related symptoms and the questionnaire shows a significant reduction in her perceived anxiety. The clinical examinations she underwent revealed respiratory performance decrease (spirometry) and QRS complex lengthening (ECG). Conclusions: Osteopathic treatment is effective on anxiety side effects due to the pandemic era. Assess the possible replacement, interchange or reduction of pharmacological therapy (benzodiazepines).