The coronavirus pandemic has devastated public health around the globe since it started in 2020. However, it is not just the virus itself that has become a significant health issue. A number of other health issues have emerged during this time that stem from the pandemic. The pandemic has changed a tremendous amount about life, and these changes have created a range of physical and mental health issues. Many people have avoided going to the doctor due to the threat of COVID-19 and have had appointments and even surgeries canceled.
Keep reading to discover a few of the biggest health issues that have arisen as a result of the pandemic.
1. Mental Health Issues
Mental health issues have been rife during COVID-19, and it is easy to see why. Many people have lost loved ones, lost their jobs, are struggling financially, and have anxiety about the virus itself. Additionally, people have had social restrictions in place and have had to spend a lot more time at home in isolation. This has all led to a surge in depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Unfortunately, this will continue to be a major issue moving forward, and people should seek help from a medical professional if they need it.
2. Undesired Weight Change
Many people have also lost or gained undesired weight during the pandemic, leading to other health issues. A survey found that as many as 61% of adults reported undesired weight change with 42% stating that they had gained more weight than they had intended. Given the circumstances, weight gain is understandable due to the increased stress in people’s lives, and many people have been inactive due to working from home and lockdown restrictions.
3. Increased Alcohol Intake
In challenging times, many people reach for the bottle as a way to cope. Stress, grief, anxiety, and boredom have led many people worldwide to increase their alcohol intake during the pandemic, which can have long-term physical and mental health implications. Alcoholism is a severe issue in many countries around the world, and the pandemic has made this much worse in some areas. Despite this, some reports show that a high percentage of younger generations are drinking less or even not at all.
4. Vision Problems
Many people have also reported a change in their vision because of the pandemic. This is unsurprising as people are spending a lot more time inside and looking at screens. This can lead to shortsightedness and other vision issues, which can impact on a person’s quality of life. Those that have suffered a deterioration in their vision can speak with LASIK eye surgery Harrisburg specialists about corrective laser treatment. Such treatments can resolve their issues and improve their quality of life.
These are a few of the leading health issues that have emerged as a direct result of the pandemic and the changes in life that this has brought. Obviously, the virus itself is the biggest threat to public health, but there are also other serious issues to be aware of that will impact public health for years to come.
