Jody Croft, a 42-year-old mother of three from Cameron Park, has been battling severe insomnia since contracting COVID-19 seven months ago. Describing her ordeal, Croft stated, “I can’t sleep at all. I’m scared.” Despite trying various remedies, including sleeping tablets and medicinal cannabis, she feels trapped in a cycle of exhaustion and fear, expressing that, “It’s like I’m dying.”
Initially, Croft’s COVID symptoms were mild, featuring body shakes. However, her condition deteriorated, prompting her to seek medical attention. A blood test revealed neutrophilia, an elevated level of neutrophils, and subsequent hospital visits confirmed her COVID diagnosis.
Impact on Daily Life
Since her infection, Croft has experienced a drastic decline in her quality of life. “I can’t think straight. I’m confused and having hallucinations,” she shared. She described her struggles with daily tasks, stating, “I can’t clean my house. I can’t be a mother.” The inability to drive or shop for five months has further isolated her from her family and community.
Throughout this ordeal, Croft has visited several hospitals, including John Hunter Hospital, Belmont, Maitland, and Calvary Mater, seeking answers and relief for her debilitating symptoms. Hospital notes from a recent visit indicated her condition as “insomnia and factitious disorder,” the latter being a mental health condition characterized by the exaggeration of symptoms. Croft vehemently disagrees with this assessment, arguing, “I’m sick. I think it’s my brain.”
Medical Perspectives on Long COVID
Health experts are increasingly recognizing the long-term effects of COVID-19. According to the New South Wales Agency for Clinical Innovation, long COVID can lead to various symptoms, including sleep disorders, cognitive impairment, and memory loss. Dr. Gemma Paech, a sleep specialist at the University of Newcastle, has discussed a condition termed “coronasomnia,” which refers to sleep disturbances linked to COVID-19.
Professor Peter Wark, who has researched long COVID, noted that insomnia is indeed prevalent among those experiencing lingering effects of the virus. “There are many reasons for someone to have insomnia,” he explained, adding that while fewer cases of long COVID are reported now, the effects can still be significant.
Croft’s frustration has grown as she awaits appointments with specialists. She has been scheduled to see a neurologist and sleep expert in two weeks. “I can’t wait that long,” she lamented. “I want to be admitted into the hospital, so they can monitor me.”
A spokesperson for Hunter New England Health stated, “The decision to admit a patient is based on the patient’s condition and clinical needs.” They emphasized that many patients experiencing lingering COVID-19 symptoms are managed in primary and community care settings, highlighting the importance of reserving emergency services for urgent cases.
As Croft continues to navigate her health challenges, her story underscores the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on individuals and families. Her determination to seek answers reflects the struggles many face in the aftermath of the pandemic.
