Long-Term Effects of COVID-19

Overview

Most people who have COVID-19 recover in 2 to 6 weeks with no long-term problems. But some people have health problems that last for weeks or months after having the infection. These problems are known as long-term effects of COVID-19. This can happen even if the person had mild or no symptoms.

Common long-term effects of a COVID-19 infection include:

• Fatigue.
• Shortness of breath.
• A cough.
• Chest pain.

Some people also report having:

• Trouble thinking or concentrating ("brain fog").
• Depression or anxiety.
• Muscle or joint pain.
• A headache.
• Diarrhea or belly pain.
• A fever that comes and goes.
• A fast or pounding heartbeat (heart palpitations).
• Dizziness when they stand up.

Other problems may include:

• An inflamed heart muscle.
• Lung problems.
• Kidney problems.
• Problems with more than one organ.
• Rashes.
• Smell and taste problems.
• Problems with sleep.
• Sensation of pins and needles.
• Menstrual changes.

These symptoms may get worse after mental or physical activity. And the symptoms may come and go.

If you've had COVID-19 and are having these problems, tell your doctor. Make sure the doctor knows that you had COVID-19.

How are long-term effects of COVID-19 diagnosed?

To find out if your symptoms are from long-term effects of COVID-19, your doctor will do a physical examination and ask you questions about your health history. Your doctor may want you to have certain tests to learn more. You may see a specialist.

How are they treated?

Your treatment will depend on your symptoms. Some symptoms may be treated with medicine. Or you may see a specialist. Your doctor also may recommend different treatments, such as physiotherapy, depending on your symptoms.

How can you care for yourself when you have long-term effects of COVID-19?

Here are some common symptoms along with some ideas for self-care to help you feel better.

• Fatigue. Return to activities slowly. It takes time to get stronger. Pace yourself.
• Shortness of breath. Breath training can help you take deeper breaths and breathe easier. Methods include pursed-lip breathing and breathing with your diaphragm.
• Cough. Prop up your head with pillows to help control coughing.

Here are other common problems, along with some tips you can try.

• Trouble thinking or concentrating ("brain fog"). Be patient with yourself. Use sticky notes and calendars to remember tasks and events.
• Depression or anxiety. Regular activity, like walking, may help. Get plenty of sleep. Avoid drugs and alcohol. Consider talking to a counsellor. Take medicine as prescribed.
• Muscle or joint pain, or headaches. Stretching may ease muscle pain. Ask your doctor if you can take over-the-counter pain medicine.

If you aren't getting better, talk to your doctor.