How do you rebuild when a hidden immune flaw amplifies every flare, turning a virus into a lifelong companion? By May 2025, I was back in the trenches of Long COVID, but the landscape had shifted—research and awareness had grown, offering tools to decode the “why” behind my relentless symptoms. I resumed Ivermectin and tried the McCullough Protocol (Nattokinase, Bromelain, and Curcumin), but discovered I was allergic to Curcumin. I also tried dozens of other supplements discovered in my research.
However, Ivermectin’s effectiveness appeared to have waned, so I returned to Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN), which, as of now, has me symptom-free. I’ve cautiously started walking for exercise again, savoring small victories. Following the flares detailed in What Is Going On With Me? My Long Journey with Long COVID Begins – Part 1 and Battling Relentless Flares: Finding Relief in My Long COVID Journey – Part 2, this final part reveals the immune puzzle pieces that explain my vulnerability and the strategies keeping me steady.
Uncovering the Root: Selective IgA Deficiency and Spike Proteins
Through relentless research, I uncovered why Long COVID hits me so hard. Since infancy, I’ve been prone to illness, and back in 2013, tired of always being sick, I had my immune system tested. Those tests confirmed I have Selective IgA Deficiency—a genetic condition where my body produces low levels of immunoglobulin A, a key antibody for mucosal immunity in areas like the throat and nose.
This explains why sneezing triggers symptoms of Long COVID; it sparks inflammation tied to lingering spike protein remnants. I now take Zyrtec immediately after sneezing to curb this response. As of this writing, I expect to use LDN indefinitely on a daily basis, and I still keep Ivermectin on hand for supplemental use if I start feeling any malaise or sore throat. I also tried nicotine patches, which surprisingly cleared my brain fog.
Navigating the Emotional Toll: Mental Health in the Mix
This journey has taken a toll on my mental health. I’ve battled depression since 2000, and Long COVID brought new elements of despair, anger, and resentment over a man-made virus upending my life. I worry about its long-term impact—has it shortened my lifespan? What damage lurks undetected in my brain and body?
At age 58, I’ve chosen to shrink my world, prioritizing my physical and mental health while continuing to counsel clients.
Embracing Small Wins: Protocols and Daily Strategies
- Current Protocol: LDN daily for inflammation control, Zyrtec for triggers, and Ivermectin on hand for malaise or sore throat that possibly signal a flare.
- Lifestyle Shifts: Gradual exercise, reduced workload, and vigilant monitoring for flares.
- Future Outlook: Ongoing research and advocacy to stay ahead of setbacks.
This experience has clarified what matters most. I’m determined to manage Long COVID as best I can, stay vigilant for flare-ups, and keep doing what I believe I was meant to do: help others.
Piecing together the 'why' behind Long COVID symptoms can feel isolating
The Conclusion
Wrapping up my Long COVID saga, the key takeaways are clear: understanding underlying conditions like Selective IgA Deficiency transforms chaos into a manageable plan, while tools like LDN and proactive strategies foster real progress. From emotional lows to cautious triumphs, this journey has woven resilience into my core.
My story with Long COVID isn’t over, but it’s taught me the value of persistence, the power of self-listening, and the strength found in vulnerability. As I move forward, savoring walks and client connections, I hold onto hope—that with awareness, we can all navigate these uncharted waters. To explore foundational stories of symptom onset, revisit What Is Going On With Me? My Long Journey with Long COVID Begins – Part 1 and Battling Relentless Flares: Finding Relief in My Long COVID Journey – Part 2.
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Julie Jakobi
My main focus is working with clients and/or family who are struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder. I utilize DBT, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Brainspotting techniques, among other approaches, to help the client find a way to regulate their symptoms and utilize new ways of approaching issues. I believe in education about what is going on in the mind and body so the client can leave our sessions with information and skills that can be utilized on a daily basis in order to achieve real change.