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Post-COVID-19 condition, commonly referred to as long COVID, is likely to affect anyone who has had SARS-CoV-2, regardless of age or the severity of their initial symptoms.
By Able Health I Medically reviewed by Dr. Alireza Estedlal
Page last reviewed: February 2024 I Next review due: February 2026
Many individuals recover from COVID-19 within a few days to weeks of experiencing their initial symptoms, with full recovery typically occurring within 12 weeks.
However, in some cases, symptoms may persist for a longer period. This condition is known as long COVID, or post-COVID-19 syndrome. Research on this emerging disease is still ongoing.
Common symptoms associated with long COVID include:
In addition, other symptoms may develop following a COVID-19 infection, such as:
While it is evident that individuals with risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, and other health or lifestyle conditions are more at risk of severe COVID-19, there is no clear link between these factors and the long-term complications of the virus.
Long COVID can affect those who had only mild symptoms, though individuals who experienced severe illness may be more prone to long-term damage.
Ongoing research aims to understand why some people suffer from these persistent health issues.
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SARS-CoV-2 can attack the body in various ways, causing damage to vital organs such as the heart, lungs, nervous system, liver, and kidneys. Mental health issues can also arise due to grief, loss, unresolved discomfort, exhaustion, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly in those who received intensive care treatment.
Healthcare professionals are observing a broad range of symptoms in post-acute COVID-19 cases. Some are anticipated following serious illnesses, but while some symptoms are minor, others may require ongoing treatment and even hospital readmission.
It is important to note that post-COVID syndrome can affect individuals who were not seriously ill during the initial infection. Even those who experienced mild symptoms can develop chronic issues.
You should contact your GP if you have experienced COVID-19 symptoms for four or more weeks and are concerned.
During your appointment for persistent coronavirus symptoms, your GP may conduct several tests to understand your condition better or to rule out other potential causes. These tests may include:
Your GP will advise you on treatment and support options and may provide guidance on managing and monitoring your symptoms at home.
If long COVID symptoms are affecting your daily life, your GP may refer you to a specialised NHS long COVID service for children, teenagers, or adults.
The services offered may include:
Receiving COVID-19 vaccinations helps reduce the risk of infection. Although breakthrough cases are possible, being fully vaccinated and receiving booster shots significantly reduces the likelihood of hospitalisation or death.
Research is ongoing regarding the duration of symptoms in those who experience breakthrough infections, but vaccination likely reduces these risks.
The time it takes to recover from COVID-19 varies from person to person. Some symptoms may resolve quickly, while others may persist. The likelihood of long-term symptoms does not necessarily correlate with the severity of the initial infection; even individuals with mild symptoms may experience long-term complications.
No single test can diagnose long COVID. However, your GP may recommend specific tests to help understand your symptoms and rule out other potential causes.
Possible diagnostic tests include:
At Imperial College London, Professor Danny Altmann and his team are researching the immune response to COVID-19. They hope that, in the future, a simple blood test may be developed to diagnose long COVID in those who produce harmful antibodies in response to the virus.
There is no single treatment for long COVID. However, remedies are available to help manage specific symptoms. Since everyone’s experience with long COVID is unique, it is important to discuss all your symptoms with your GP to find the best approach for you.
You may be referred to a long COVID care centre or a specialist who can help manage your symptoms, such as providing physiotherapy or mental health support. Speak to your GP to find out if a referral is needed.
In addition, there are steps you can take to manage symptoms during recovery, including:
Although there is still much to learn about long COVID, several self-management strategies can help ease symptoms:
Tiredness and fatigue: Lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol intake and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help manage fatigue. Keeping a diary of your daily routine, sleep patterns, and symptoms may help you identify triggers.
Eating a balanced diet: Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial for recovery.
Exercise: Your ability to exercise will depend on how you feel. It is important to consult your GP before starting any new exercise regimen, particularly if your symptoms are severe or if you have not exercised for a while.
Start slowly, and listen to your body. For example:
Mental health (depression and anxiety): If you are struggling with depression or anxiety, seek help from NHS mental health services.
Breathlessness: Breathing exercises can help if you experience breathlessness. Breathing slowly and deeply through your nose can help you regain your normal breathing pattern. A physiotherapist may also assist.
Trouble concentrating (brain fog): If you have persistent trouble concentrating, remembering things, or processing information, discuss these symptoms with your GP.
Heart palpitations or dizziness: If you experience heart palpitations or dizziness, move slowly when sitting or standing and engage in light activities.
Long COVID symptoms can mimic other conditions, so it is important to consult a GP to rule out other potential causes. Never ignore symptoms such as loss of smell, anxiety, depression, or insomnia. If any of your symptoms are affecting your daily life, speak to your GP, who can provide support and help you manage your condition.
If you experience new chest pain, blue lips, breathing difficulties, or any sign of a life-threatening condition, contact your GP or dial NHS 111 immediately.