If you are one of the unfortunate ones to be hit with Covid-19 and after a few weeks, some of the symptoms are still lingering, you might have long Covid.
What is long Covid?
Long COVID or Post-COVID Syndrome is when you experience ongoing symptoms that continue for longer than 12 weeks and cannot be explained by another condition. These symptoms might change or develop over time but can be attributed to having contracted the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
What are the symptoms of long Covid?
The symptoms of long Covid can be vast and can sometimes be hard to distinguish between Covid and generally feeling unwell.
General symptoms
- Respiratory & Cardiovascular Symptoms (seek medical attention)
- Breathlessness
- Cough
- Chest tightness
- Chest pain
- Palpitations
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Pain
It is vital that if you experience any respiratory or cardiovascular symptoms, you seek medical guidance to ensure your condition doesn’t become worse or put your long-term health at risk.
Neurological Symptoms
- Cognitive impairment (‘brain fog’, loss of concentration or memory issues)
- Headache
- Sleep disturbance
- Pins and needles or numbness
- Dizziness
- Delirium (in older people)
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Anorexia and reduced appetite (in older people)
- Weight loss
Musculoskeletal Symptoms
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
Psychological/Psychiatric Symptoms
- Symptoms of depression
- Symptoms of anxiety
- Ear, Nose and Throat Symptoms
- Tinnitus
- Earache
- Sore throat
- Loss of taste and/or smell
Dermatological Symptoms
- Skin rashes
How long does long Covid last?
The duration of the illness will depend on the individual and although some cases have been resolved within 3 months, it can continue beyond this time period. This may lead you to ask, does long COVID go away? In general, the medical profession believes that most sufferers will recover. However, you can help your system fight long COVID by giving your body the strength to heal through taking care of your general health.
Treatment and support
If the symptoms of Covid-19 are having a big impact on your life, you may want to look into specialist rehabilitation service. The NHS has a great portal on supporting and recovery after COVID-19 which you can find here.
If you wish to discuss any problems you may be having, please do get in touch with one of our GP clinic here.
