Long-term Effects of COVID-19

Overview

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Most people who recover from COVID-19 do so within 2 to 6 weeks, but some may experience lasting symptoms. These long-lasting symptoms may be called Chronic COVID or Long COVID.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines Long COVID as a chronic condition that occurs after SARS-CoV-2 infection and last at least 3 months. Long-term effects of COVID-19 can affect people with mild or severe illness. Some of the long-term effects may be due to the virus’ effect on organs like the heart, kidneys, lung and brain. They may also affect both physical and mental health.

People with long-term effects of COVID may:

Have COVID-19 symptoms return after seeming to recover from COVID-19.
Develop new symptoms within a few months of having COVID.

People at higher risk for developing long-term effects include those who:

Had severe COVID-19, especially those hospitalized with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).
Had underlying risk factors conditions for COVID-19 before getting COVID-19.
Had multisystem inflammatory disease (MIS) from COVID-19.
Had multiple SARS-CoV-2 infections
Are female 20 years and older

Physical health effects that may be attributed to long-term effects of COVID-19 include:

Fatigue and shortness of breath
Heart palpitations or chest pain
Trouble concentrating
Headaches
Sleep problems
Digestive problems including diarrhea and stomach pain
Persistent loss of smell
Muscle pains

Mental Health Effects may include:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS): People who required intensive care during their COVID-19 illness may be at increased risk for mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Adjustment Difficulties: Adjusting to the impact of COVID-19 on daily life can have significant effects on a person's psychological well-being.

Treatment for the long-term effects of COVID-19 varies depending on the specific symptoms experienced by each individual. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance. Here are some general approaches to treatment:

Medical Management:

Patients who have recovered from COVID-19 should continue to have routine check-ups with their healthcare provider to monitor their overall health and address any ongoing symptoms or concerns.
Depending on the specific symptoms experienced, medications may be prescribed to manage pain, inflammation, or other related conditions.

Rehabilitation:

Pulmonary rehabilitation can help improve lung function and overall respiratory fitness.
For those experiencing muscle weakness or physical limitations, physical therapy can aid in regaining strength and mobility.

Mental Health Support:

Seeking support from a mental health professional can help individuals cope with any psychological distress or adjustment difficulties caused by COVID-19.
Joining support groups or online communities can provide a sense of connection and understanding among individuals facing similar challenges.

It's important to note that research on the long-term effects of COVID-19 is still ongoing, and healthcare professionals continue to learn more about this novel virus. If you are experiencing any long-term symptoms after recovering from COVID-19, it is recommended to reach out to your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance on appropriate treatment options tailored to your specific needs.