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Long COVID

Table of Contents


Overview

Most people who have COVID-19 recover in a few days to a few weeks with no long-term problems. But some people have health problems that last for weeks, months, or years after the infection. These problems are often called long COVID. This can happen even if the person had mild or no symptoms. But long COVID is more common if the illness was serious.

Symptoms of long COVID are present 4 weeks or more after you got COVID-19. The symptoms may get worse after mental or physical activity. And they may come and go.

Long COVID can affect many organs, causing a wide range of symptoms. Common symptoms include:

Some people also have:

Other possible symptoms include:

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 is long COVID diagnosed?

To find out if your symptoms are from long COVID, your doctor will do a physical exam 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 is it treated?

There is no specific treatment for long COVID, but there are ways your doctor can help you. Your treatment will be based on the symptoms you have. Some symptoms may be treated with medicine. Or you may see a specialist. Your doctor also may recommend different treatments, like physical therapy, depending on your symptoms.

How can you care for yourself when you have long COVID?


Credits for Long COVID

Current as of: February 28, 2024

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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