Acupuncture for Long-COVID: Relief for Persistent ENT and Post-Viral Symptoms
Long-COVID affects millions, causing persistent sinus pressure, fatigue, breathlessness, and brain fog. Acupuncture offers evidence-informed support by reducing inflammation, regulating your nervous system, and addressing the lingering effects of viral infection—particularly ENT symptoms that overlap with chronic sinusitis.
What Is Long-COVID?
Long-COVID, also called post-COVID-19 syndrome, describes symptoms that persist for more than 12 weeks after your initial COVID-19 infection. According to UK House of Commons data from March 2023, an estimated 1.9 million people in the UK were experiencing Long-Covid, representing 2.9% of the population. Of these, 1.3 million had symptoms lasting more than a year.
The condition isn't always linked to how severe your initial infection was. You could have had mild symptoms at first and still develop Long-COVID months later.
Common symptom clusters include:
Persistent fatigue and post-exertional malaise
Breathlessness and chest tightness
Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
Headaches and facial pressure
Sinus congestion and post-nasal drip
Loss or alteration of smell and taste
Sleep disturbances and anxiety
The CDC reports that over 200 Long-COVID symptoms have been identified, affecting multiple body systems. This complexity is partly why acupuncture, which takes a whole-body approach, can be particularly helpful.
We were featured in the Daily Mail in an interview about Long-COVID
Why Long-COVID Affects Your Sinuses and ENT System
If you're experiencing persistent sinus pressure, facial pain, or nasal congestion months after your COVID infection, you're not alone. Post-viral inflammation and autonomic imbalance can keep ENT symptoms lingering long after the acute phase.
Research shows that headache was present in 72% of COVID-19 patients, often linked to acute rhinosinusitis symptoms. The virus triggers an inflammatory response that affects the nasal passages and sinuses, sometimes leading to symptoms that mirror chronic rhinosinusitis:
Persistent congestion and thick nasal discharge
Facial tenderness and pressure around your eyes, forehead, and cheeks
Post-nasal drip that won't shift
Reduced sense of smell (anosmia) or distorted smell
Recurring headaches with a pressing, tightening quality
According to research from Tejas ENT, Long-COVID can cause persistent sinus infections due to the immune response, potentially worsening inflammatory symptoms. The virus's impact on the central nervous system may also contribute to facial pain and neurological symptoms.
The TCM View: Post-Viral Patterns
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Long-Covid typically involves patterns we commonly see in post-viral conditions and chronic sinus issues. Understanding these patterns helps explain why acupuncture can address multiple symptoms simultaneously.
Lung Qi Deficiency
After a viral infection, your Lung Qi, the energy that governs respiration and your body's protective layer, often becomes depleted. This manifests as:
Weak, persistent cough
Shortness of breath, especially on exertion
Weak voice or dislike of speaking
Spontaneous daytime sweating
Increased vulnerability to catching infections
Wei Qi (Defensive Qi) Weakness
Your Wei Qi is like your body's immune shield. According to TCM principles, when it's weakened by viral infection, you become prone to catching every bug around and struggle to shake them off. The Lungs are responsible for spreading this protective energy throughout your body, particularly to the surface layers.
Lingering Damp-Heat or Phlegm
Post-viral inflammation can leave behind what TCM calls Damp-Heat, sticky, lingering pathology that clogs the sinuses and airways. This explains the thick nasal discharge, heaviness, and difficulty clearing symptoms that characterise post-COVID ENT issues.
How Acupuncture Helps Long-COVID: The Evidence
The research on acupuncture for Long-COVID is growing. A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Neurology examined acupuncture's effectiveness for neurological and neuropsychiatric Long-Covid symptoms, including fatigue, depression, anxiety, headache, insomnia, and cognitive impairment.
Key Mechanisms
Research published in Medical Acupuncture shows that acupuncture alleviates many effects of COVID-19 by:
Lowering inflammation: Reducing the persistent inflammatory response that keeps symptoms active
Modulating the adaptive immune response: Helping your immune system recalibrate after viral assault
Regulating the vagus nerve: This interfaces with parasympathetic control of your heart, lungs, and digestive organs
Influencing nitric oxide production: Supporting blood vessel function and oxygen delivery
A study from China showed promising results: among 31 Long-Covid cases treated with acupuncture and herbal medicine, 74.19% showed significant improvement, with a 100% total effective rate. Symptoms that improved included fatigue, coughing, breathing difficulties, brain fog, back pain, and sleep disturbances.
What About ENT-Specific Symptoms?
For sinus and respiratory symptoms specifically, acupuncture works by:
Opening nasal passages through local point stimulation
Reducing sinus inflammation and pressure
Supporting drainage and clearing congestion
Modulating the trigeminal nerve to ease facial pain
Strengthening your body's defences against recurrent flare-ups
Irish clinics commonly use acupuncture protocols for sinusitis and allergies that translate well to Long-Covid ENT symptoms—combining local points around the face with distal points on the hands, arms, and legs to address systemic factors.
What to Expect: Your Acupuncture Plan at AcuFusion
When you book an appointment with William O'Donnell at AcuFusion in Blanchardstown, here's what happens.
Initial Appointment (45–60 minutes)
William will take a detailed case history, asking about:
Your COVID infection timeline
Current symptoms and how they affect your daily life
Past medical history and any medications
Sleep, energy, digestion, and stress levels
TCM diagnostic tools: tongue examination and pulse diagnosis
This comprehensive assessment allows William to identify your specific TCM pattern—whether that's primarily Lung Qi deficiency, Wei Qi weakness, lingering Damp-Heat, or a combination.
Treatment Approach
Based on findings from research on Long-COVID acupuncture protocols, your treatment plan will likely include:
Acupuncture points targeting:
Local sinus points to open the nasal passages and drain congestion
Lung-supporting points to strengthen respiratory function
Distal points on limbs for immune modulation and systemic symptoms
Stress-regulating points to calm your nervous system
Complementary therapies:
Cupping or Myofascial Decompression: Particularly helpful for chest tightness and upper back tension
Red Light Therapy: To reduce inflammation and support cellular healing
Auricular (ear) seeds: Take-home seeds you press between sessions to support sleep and anxiety
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Custom formulas or patent remedies to address your specific pattern
Breathing exercises: Techniques to regulate your autonomic nervous system and improve lung capacity
Treatment Frequency
Acute Long-Covid symptoms (4–12 weeks post-infection) may respond within 3–5 sessions. Chronic presentations (12+ weeks) typically need a longer course, often starting with twice-weekly sessions for 2–3 weeks, then weekly, with reassessment at session 6. Full recovery often takes a year. We understand that many sufferers are not able to make it to the clinic in the beginning. We offer online appointments to facilitate clients who are unable to travel. We use a combination of plant medicine, breathing exercises, acupressure, lifestyle and dietary therapy in these cases.
Research on acupuncture for post-viral fatigue suggests that consistent treatment over several weeks allows the body to shift from an acute stress response into proper recovery mode.
Targeting Your Specific Long-COVID Symptoms
Breathing Issues and Chest Tightness
Persistent breathlessness is frustrating and frightening. Acupuncture helps by:
Opening airways through lung-clearing points
Releasing the diaphragm and intercostal muscle tension
Reducing the inflammatory response in respiratory tissues
Supporting better oxygen exchange
Many patients notice easier breathing within the first few sessions, though full improvement takes time.
Sinus Pressure and Facial Pain
Drawing from our experience treating sinusitis, we use:
Local points around the nose, forehead, and cheeks
Techniques borrowed from managing chronic rhinosinusitis
Drainage-supporting acupressure guidance for home use
The pressure often eases noticeably after 1–2 treatments, though underlying inflammation requires a longer course.
Fatigue and Post-Exertional Malaise
Long-COVID fatigue isn't ordinary tiredness. Your body struggles to produce and manage energy efficiently. Acupuncture addresses this by:
Tonifying your Spleen and Lung Qi (the TCM organs most involved in energy production)
Regulating autonomic balance so your body can actually rest when resting
Supporting mitochondrial function and reducing systemic inflammation
Brain Fog and Cognitive Issues
That frustrating mental fuzziness often improves as we address:
Blood flow to the brain
Nervous system regulation
Inflammatory markers that affect cognition
Sleep quality (poor sleep perpetuates brain fog)
Anxiety, Sleep, and Nervous System Dysregulation
Many Long-Covid patients experience heightened anxiety or disrupted sleep patterns. Treatment focuses on:
Calming the nervous system through parasympathetic activation
Regulating stress hormones like cortisol
Using auricular acupuncture for ongoing anxiety support
Teaching simple breathing techniques you can use at home
Headaches and Migraines
Post-COVID headaches often have a pressing, vice-like quality. We treat these by:
Releasing tension in the trigeminal nerve distribution
Addressing sinus inflammation if present
Supporting better blood flow and reducing neuroinflammation
Supporting Your Recovery Between Sessions
Acupuncture works best as part of a broader recovery plan. Here's what you can do at home:
Pacing and Energy Management
This isn't about "pushing through." Long-Covid often involves post-exertional malaise—symptoms that worsen after physical or mental exertion. Learn to pace activities, rest before you're exhausted, and avoid boom-bust cycles.
Breathing Practice
Simple diaphragmatic breathing for 5–10 minutes daily helps regulate your autonomic nervous system. William can teach you specific techniques during your session.
Sinus Care
Saline rinses: Use a neti pot or saline spray to clear nasal passages
Steam inhalation: We can give you an essential oil strategy
Hydration: Keep mucous membranes moist by drinking plenty of water and staying away from areas with dry heat. (convection heaters)
Anti-Inflammatory Eating
Focus on:
Omega-3-rich foods (oily fish, flaxseeds, walnuts)
Colourful vegetables and fruits
Warming, easily digestible foods if your digestion is weak
Minimal processed foods, excess sugar, and dairy (which can increase phlegm)
Sleep Hygiene
Same bedtime and wake time every day
Cool, dark bedroom
Avoid screens an hour before bed
Press your auricular seeds before sleep
Immune Support and Preventing Relapses
One of acupuncture's strengths is building resilience. Just as Irish clinics use acupuncture seasonally to prevent hay fever flare-ups or recurring sinus infections, we can support your immune system to reduce Long-Covid relapses.
Seasonal Maintenance
TCM recognises that autumn is the season of the Lungs. If you notice symptoms worsening with seasonal changes, monthly or quarterly maintenance treatments can help keep your system balanced.
Chinese Herbal Support
Formulas like Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Shield) are specifically designed to strengthen defensive Qi and reduce frequent infections. This traditional formula needs 3–5 months for full effect, but can significantly reduce vulnerability to respiratory illness.
Safety, Standards, and When to See Your GP
AcuFusion's Safety Standards
William O'Donnell is registered with the AFPA and holds full professional indemnity insurance. All treatments follow strict protocols:
Single-use, sterile needles
Clean needle technique
Comprehensive case history before any treatment
Full explanation of what to expect
AcuFusion's receipts are recognised by VHI, Laya, and Irish Life Health. Check your policy for coverage details.
Red Flags: When to Contact Your GP
Acupuncture is safe and effective for most Long-Covid symptoms, but seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
High fever or sudden severe headache
Chest pain or sudden breathlessness
Visual changes or neurological symptoms
Severe dizziness or fainting
Symptoms that rapidly worsen
The HSE has developed 6 clinics across Ireland providing multidisciplinary assessment. Speak to your GP about referral options. Acupuncture works beautifully alongside conventional care—it's not either/or.
Realistic Expectations: What Results Look Like
Long-COVID recovery isn't linear. You'll have better days and setbacks. That's normal.
Acute Presentations (Recent Long-COVID)
If your symptoms started within the last few months, you might notice:
Sessions 1–3: Some improvement in sleep, anxiety, or one primary symptom
Sessions 4–6: More consistent changes; energy may start improving
Sessions 7–10: Significant reduction in symptom severity; ability to do more without a crash
Chronic Presentations (6+ months)
Longer-standing symptoms take more time:
First month (6–8 sessions): Small improvements; better sense of what helps
Second month: More noticeable changes; symptoms are less dominant
Third month onwards: Substantial improvement; quality of life markedly better
A case study published in Medical Acupuncture followed a 46-year-old male with Long-Covid treated from February to June 2021. By the end of the course, he experienced significant improvement in pain, burning sensations in his fingers, headaches, cough, anxiety, and brain fog.
Maintenance Phase
Once you're feeling substantially better, many people continue with:
Monthly sessions to maintain progress
Seasonal top-ups (autumn for immune support, spring for allergies)
Treatment at the first sign of symptom flare-up
Think of it like maintaining your car. Regular servicing prevents bigger problems down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can acupuncture help if I'm already using steroid sprays or taking antihistamines?
Absolutely. Acupuncture complements conventional treatments. In fact, combining approaches often works better than either alone. Always tell William what medications you're taking; it helps him tailor your treatment.
Will needles go in my face for sinus symptoms?
Usually, yes, but they're incredibly fine (much thinner than injection needles) and relatively painless. Most people describe a slight tingling or dull ache. We also use distal points on your hands, arms, and legs, which are often equally important for treating ENT symptoms.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on how long you've had symptoms and their severity. Plan for an initial course of 6–8 sessions over 3–4 weeks, with reassessment at session 3. Some people improve quickly; others need a longer course. We'll be honest about what we're seeing and adjust the plan accordingly.
Is Chinese herbal medicine necessary?
Not essential, but it can speed recovery significantly. However, herbs are essential if you can’t make it into our clinic. For persistent fatigue or weak immunity, herbs offer round-the-clock support between acupuncture sessions. William will discuss options based on your specific pattern.
Will acupuncture restore my sense of smell and taste?
Possibly. Research suggests acupuncture at specific points, like LI20, may help with olfactory dysfunction following respiratory infections. However, it's not guaranteed; some nerve damage from COVID can be stubborn. We'll be realistic about expectations based on how long your symptoms have persisted.
How much does treatment cost?
A standard session at AcuFusion is €95, which includes acupuncture, electro-acupuncture if needed, cupping, red light therapy, and herbal consultation. Specialised programmes with longer sessions or complex herbal protocols are discussed individually. Concessions available for senior citizens and students.
How do I book?
Call (01) 524 0874 or book online. The clinic is at 105B Dillon House, Porters Road, Coolmine Industrial Estate, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, easily accessible from Castleknock with parking available.
Next Steps: Start Your Recovery Plan
Long-COVID can feel isolating and frustrating. You're dealing with symptoms that are hard to explain, that fluctuate unpredictably, and that might not show up on standard medical tests. But you're not making it up, and there are things that can help.
Acupuncture offers a gentle, evidence-informed approach that addresses the complexity of Long-Covid, not just suppressing symptoms but supporting your body's own healing mechanisms. By combining Traditional Chinese Medicine wisdom with modern understanding of post-viral illness, we can create a treatment plan that makes sense for your specific situation.
What to bring to your first appointment:
List of current medications and supplements
Any recent test results or letters from specialists
Symptom diary, if you've been keeping one
Questions about what to expect
Ready to start feeling better?
Book your initial appointment with William O'Donnell at AcuFusion. During this 45–60 minute session, you'll get a thorough assessment, your first treatment, and a clear plan for moving forward.
AFPA registered • Insurer recognised • Single-use sterile needles
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP or healthcare provider regarding your specific health concerns. AcuFusion provides complementary healthcare that works alongside, not instead of, conventional medical treatment.