In 2019, the first cases of COVID-19 emerged, and it wasn't until three years later that the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 infections could be controlled. However, the disease has continued to wreak havoc on the population, and the condition known as long COVID has been identified: a series of ailments that persist for weeks or months after the acute phase of the infection has been overcome.
If you have suffered from COVID-19 and still experience discomfort that affects your quality of life, you may be facing this condition, so it is necessary to consult specialists, like those you will find at Mitogenesis. It is crucial to know the signs and possible symptoms so you can seek medical attention promptly. Next, we will discuss how you can identify if you have long COVID.
Long COVID is a medical condition in which the symptoms of COVID-19 persist beyond four weeks after the initial infection.
Long-term COVID symptoms vary greatly from person to person, which can sometimes confuse them with other conditions and complicate diagnosis. They do not only manifest in the respiratory system; it is a multisystemic condition and can present neurological, cardiovascular, and digestive symptoms. The severity and duration of the symptoms fluctuate, but medical consensus recommends consulting a specialist if they persist for four weeks or more.
In most cases, the symptoms of long COVID are more debilitating than the acute phase of the infection and, if left untreated, can be fatal.
Identifying this condition is a complex process, as the symptoms vary and are often confused with other ailments. Therefore, specialists must observe and analyze the persistence of common COVID-19 symptoms beyond the typical recovery periods.
If the symptoms continue for several weeks, we should conduct specialized studies to identify the causes. In case there is a combination of fatigue, difficulty breathing, or cognitive problems, it is recommended to consult a medical professional sooner for an appropriate evaluation.
As we have mentioned, long COVID manifests with prolonged symptoms of the SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, they vary from one individual to another. Alarms typically trigger when a combination of the following common symptoms manifests:
Extreme or debilitating fatigue is the most reported symptom by people with long COVID. Unlike fatigue from stress or musculoskeletal issues, this type of fatigue is characterized by a sense of exhaustion that does not improve with rest. It is very common for it to interfere with daily activities and make people more prone to accidents.
The acute phase of COVID is characterized by respiratory problems, and in the case of long COVID, the sensation of shortness of breath, or dyspnea, even after minimal exertion, is a common symptom. This symptom indicates persistent lung impairment.
It is the term assigned to persistent cognitive problems, such as difficulties concentrating, short-term memory loss, and mental confusion. Mental fog affects the ability to perform daily activities, no matter how simple they may be.
Many people with long COVID have reported persistent pain in muscles and joints. Although it is an uncommon symptom during the acute phase of the infection, it occurs during this condition.
If you have no history of headaches or they worsen after COVID-19, they may indicate long COVID. If you experience them for two weeks or more after the initial recovery, it is necessary to see a specialist.
Some people experience a prolonged loss or alteration of taste and smell, affecting their appetite and quality of life. In some cases, this loss of taste and smell can be dangerous because it makes it difficult to identify certain foods that are spoiled or unsafe to eat.
Many patients report insomnia or sleep disorders, which can exacerbate other symptoms like fatigue and mental fog. Additionally, it has a direct impact on overall health.
Sometimes, patients suffering from long COVID experience sensations of rapid heartbeats or irregularities even while at rest. Such symptoms may indicate that there is an impact on the cardiovascular system.
Problems such as diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal pain may persist, indicating a possible gastrointestinal system involvement.
Long COVID can occur in anyone who has been infected with SARS-CoV-2. Various risk factors enhance the probability of developing it. The most common are
If you have any of the risk factors and show any of the main long COVID symptoms, do this:
Long COVID is a complex condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach for its management. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate care are fundamental steps to improve the quality of life for those who suffer from it.
Recognizing the symptoms and seeking appropriate care are fundamental steps to improving the quality of life for those who suffer from it.
If you are dealing with persistent symptoms after COVID-19, at Mitogenesis we offer you a comprehensive evaluation and evidence-based therapies to help you regain your well-being.
Book your personalized consultation at Mitogenesis today and discover a healing plan tailored to your body and health history. Please call us or fill out a contact form with your information!
Signs and Symptoms of Long COVID (https://www.cdc.gov/covid/long-term-effects/long-covid-signs-symptoms.html)
Long-term effects of COVID-19 (long COVID) (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/covid-19/long-term-effects-of-covid-19-long-covid/)
Long COVID: Lasting effects of COVID-19 (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-long-term-effects/art-20490351)
Signs and symptoms of long COVID (https://www.nhsinform.scot/long-term-effects-of-covid-19-long-covid/about-long-covid/signs-and-symptoms-of-long-covid/)
Dr. Mel Schottenstein
Naturopathic Doctor
NMD, MBE, MScN, FICT, FSCT
Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of your physician or other health care professional. Do not use the information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem.
