Long COVID

Overview

It can follow mild or severe COVID.

Symptoms getting worse a day or two after effort (post-exertional malaise) is common.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Lasting symptoms after COVID
• Symptoms lasting weeks or months after COVID

Less common

• Brain fog
• Shortness of breath
• Fast heartbeat

When to get medical care

Causes

COVID-19 infection.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: coughs, sneezes, or the air.
• Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.

Who is more likely to get it

• Severe COVID
• Unvaccinated

Possible complications

• Chronic fatigue syndrome

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on history.

Questions you may be asked

• When symptoms began

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Tests: To rule out other causes.

Treatment

Pace yourself.

Self-care

• Rest before you're exhausted
• Keep a symptom diary
• Break tasks into small steps
• Drink fluids and add salt if dizzy on standing (ask first)

Long COVID clinics can help.

Prevention

To lower risk:

• Stay up to date on COVID vaccines

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Stay home until you've had no fever for 24 hours without fever medicine and you're feeling better.
• For the next 5 days, wash hands often and wear a mask around others.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Many people improve over time.

Myths and facts

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Is there a long COVID clinic near me?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Long COVID