5 Common Symptoms of Long COVID You Need to Know About

Understanding Long COVID Symptoms

Long COVID or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PAS) refers to the persistence of symptoms that extend beyond the acute phase of the COVID-19 infection. Symptoms that were previously thought to clear up in a week or two can persist for weeks or months, affecting the quality of life of the infected individuals. The underlying cause of these symptoms is yet to be fully understood. Here are some of the common symptoms of Long COVID that you need to know about:

1. Chronic Fatigue

Chronic fatigue, also known as fatigue syndrome, is a common symptom observed in individuals who had Long COVID. The patients experience difficulty in resuming their daily activities, feel exhausted even after minimal physical activities, and experience persistent tiredness that does not improve with rest. This can persist for months, significantly affecting their quality of life.

2. Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath is another common symptom of Long COVID. The patients may have difficulty breathing, which can be mild to severe, even while performing routine physical activities. A visit to the emergency room may be required in severe cases. In some cases, pulmonary function tests or imaging may be required to determine the underlying cause of the shortness of breath.

3. Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive impairment, also known as brain fog, is another common symptom experienced by individuals with Long COVID. This can manifest itself in various ways, including difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, difficulty finding the right words, and difficulty in multitasking. This can significantly impact the patient’s ability to function at work or school.

4. Joint Pain and Muscle Weakness

Long COVID can cause joint pain and muscle weakness as it affects the musculoskeletal system. This can make it difficult for infected individuals to perform even the simplest of tasks. In some cases, recovery can take several months, and pain management may be required to alleviate the symptoms.

5. Loss of Taste and Smell

Loss of taste and smell is a common symptom observed in individuals with Long COVID. This can persist even after the other symptoms have subsided, affecting the individual’s ability to enjoy food. In some cases, the loss of taste and smell can also increase the risk of accidents due to the inability to detect dangerous fumes or spoiled foods.

Conclusion

The symptoms of Long COVID are varied and can significantly impact the quality of life of the infected individuals. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially if they persist beyond the typical recovery period of COVID-19. As the cause of Long COVID is yet to be fully understood, proper care and management of symptoms can help alleviate the negative impacts of this condition.