Long COVID, also known as post-COVID conditions, can manifest a wide array of symptoms that can persist for weeks, months, or even years. These symptoms can vary significantly from person to person, ranging from mild discomfort to severe debilitation, and may overlap with symptoms of other illnesses. It’s important to understand that Long COVID can affect individuals differently, with diverse combinations of symptoms that can be challenging to identify and diagnose, often requiring comprehensive medical attention and potentially leading to disability.
A woman experiencing fatigue, a common symptom of Long COVID, sitting on the floor.
It’s a notable fact that fatigue, brain fog, and post-exertional malaise (PEM), the worsening of symptoms after physical or mental effort, are frequently reported by those with Long COVID. However, the spectrum of Long COVID symptoms is vast, with over 200 different symptoms identified to date.
Here’s a list of other commonly reported symptoms associated with Long COVID. This is not an exhaustive list, and individuals may experience different combinations and severities of these symptoms:
General Symptoms:
- Persistent tiredness or fatigue that significantly disrupts daily life
- Post-exertional malaise (PEM), where symptoms intensify after physical or mental activity
- Fever
Respiratory and Heart Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
- Persistent cough
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Heart palpitations or a racing heart (tachycardia)
Neurological Symptoms:
- Cognitive dysfunction or difficulty concentrating, often referred to as “brain fog”
- Headaches
- Disturbed sleep patterns or insomnia
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially upon standing (orthostatic hypotension)
- Sensory disturbances like tingling or pins-and-needles sensations (paresthesia)
- Changes in the sense of smell (anosmia or parosmia) or taste (dysgeusia)
- Symptoms of depression or anxiety
Digestive Symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain or stomachache
- Constipation
Other Symptoms:
- Joint pain (arthralgia) or muscle pain (myalgia)
- Skin rash
- Changes in the menstrual cycle
It’s crucial to recognize that some individuals with Long COVID experience symptoms that are not easily explained or managed. Currently, there isn’t a specific laboratory test to definitively diagnose Long COVID based on these unexplained symptoms. This lack of definitive testing can sometimes lead to misunderstanding or even stigma, potentially delaying accurate diagnosis and access to appropriate care and treatment. Management of Long COVID focuses on alleviating symptoms, minimizing their impact on daily functioning, and enhancing overall quality of life.
If you are experiencing persistent, hard-to-explain symptoms, or suspect you or your child may have Long COVID, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.
Complications of Long COVID
Certain individuals, particularly those who initially experienced severe COVID-19, may develop multi-organ effects or autoimmune conditions that can last for extended periods following the acute illness. Multi-organ effects can impact various systems within the body, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, skin, and brain. Notably, the symptoms associated with many of these multi-organ complications can be similar to commonly reported Long COVID symptoms. Consequently, individuals who have had COVID-19 might be at an increased risk of developing new or worsening health conditions.
Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS)
A woman in a hospital bed, representing the potential for post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) following severe illness.
People who have experienced severe illness requiring hospitalization may be susceptible to post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). While PICS is not exclusive to COVID-19, it can occur following infection with SARS-CoV-2 and contribute to the Long COVID experience. PICS-related health issues can emerge during intensive care unit (ICU) stays and may include:
- Muscle weakness and physical limitations
- Cognitive impairments affecting thinking and judgment
- Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
In individuals who develop PICS after a COVID-19 diagnosis, determining whether these health problems arise from the severity of the illness, the virus itself, or a combination of factors can be complex.
Connection Between Long COVID and ME/CFS
Some individuals with Long COVID report symptoms that bear resemblance to those experienced by individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), another chronic illness that can emerge after infections. Both conditions share challenges in:
- Recognizing and accurately identifying the diverse symptoms
- Gaining understanding and belief from family, friends, and healthcare professionals
- Obtaining a definitive diagnosis
- Effectively managing symptoms and the overall condition
Organizations like the CDC are actively working to improve understanding and support for individuals affected by Long COVID, ME/CFS, and other chronic illnesses that can follow infections.
Resources
For further information and support, consider exploring resources related to:
- Disability support services
- Symptom management resources
- Mental health support
