Long Covid is a condition that can affect people who have previously had a Covid-19 infection.
It includes a range of symptoms and can sometimes last for several months. This can make you feel weak and unwell.
But don’t despair — there are plenty of things you can do to support your recovery. That’s what we are going to talk about in this article, as well as the symptoms of long Covid and how to avoid it.
What is long Covid?
Long Covid is a condition that affects people who have already had Covid-19. It usually occurs within three months of the original infection. Long Covid symptoms tend to last for at least two months.
Many people who have had Covid-19 have ongoing symptoms like a cough or feeling very tired.
This does not necessarily mean that they have long Covid. There’s no test for it, but your doctor will be able to make a diagnosis by looking at your symptoms and ruling out other conditions.
Long Covid symptoms
Common symptoms of long Covid include:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Difficulty speaking
- Fatigue
- Problems with memory or concentration (“brain fog”)
- Problems with sleep
- Persistent cough
- Fever
- Chest pain
- Muscular pain
- Loss of sense of taste or smell
- Anxiety and/or depression
For children, symptoms are mainly:
- Changes in mood
- Fatigue
- Problems with sleep
As you can see, there is a wide range of symptoms that you may experience if you have long Covid. You may be affected by one or more symptoms, which could be mild, moderate or severe.
It can be difficult to tell the difference between long Covid and other conditions with similar symptoms. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor to get a firm diagnosis.
Who is at risk of long Covid?
Some people are more at risk of long Covid. These groups include:
- People who have not been vaccinated against Covid
- People who have had certain variants of Covid-19 — for example, if you have had the Delta variant, you are more likely to get long Covid than if you have experienced the Omicron variant
- Older people and females
- People with other health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or asthma
How long does long Covid last?
On average, long Covid lasts around three to four months.
In some cases, long Covid can result in long-term problems with the heart, lungs or blood clotting or may cause diabetes.
Long Covid treatment
There is no specific treatment for long Covid, but your doctor can help you with strategies to manage your symptoms.
Here are some simple steps you can take at home.
For long Covid fatigue
- Get into a good bedtime routine to ensure quality sleep.
- Take regular, gentle exercise.
- Follow a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
- Keep to a healthy weight.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Manage stress.
- Take rest breaks during your day.
For long Covid anxiety and depression
- Try relaxation techniques such as calming breathing exercises.
- Practise mindfulness — focusing on the “here and now.”
- Resume gentle activities you enjoy, whether that’s reading, indulging in a bubble bath or going for a walk.
- Be kind to yourself — this can include acknowledging the progress you have already made.
For long Covid fever
- Keep track of your temperature to know if it goes above a normal level. If your temperature reaches 38°C or higher, you most likely have a fever. Infrared thermometers are a quick, non-invasive way to take your temperature.
- For children, you can use stick on temperature indicators so you can monitor their temperature with ease for up to 48 hours.
- Use cooling products to provide relief.
- Drink plenty of clear, non-alcoholic liquids.
- Keep your room at a comfortable temperature.
- Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing.
- Get advice from your doctor if your fever is persistent or if you are concerned.
What’s the best way to protect myself from long Covid?
The best way to protect yourself from Covid-19 and long Covid is to get vaccinated. Search here to find a vaccine clinic near you.
You can also practise Covid-safe behaviour, which includes:
- Taking a test if you have symptoms
- Wearing a face mask in crowded places
- Keeping your home and workplace well ventilated
- Washing and sanitising your hands regularly
Wellbeing products inspired by you!
Long Covid can be challenging for sufferers, but with a little patience, self-help and support from your doctor, you will make it through.
Be sure to stock up on health and wellbeing products to help speed up your recovery.
You can find a full range of wellness products in the FeverMates online shop. Know that everything we do is inspired by you and your health — our products are designed to keep your wellbeing at its very best!