What is Long Covid?

Long Covid (also known as Chronic COVID-19 or post COVID syndrome) describes someone with ongoing symptoms after being sick with Covid-19. According to the World Health Organization, Long Covid refers to individuals with symptoms (e.g. fatigue, shortness of breath, etc.) that are related to a probable or diagnosed Covid-19 illness within the last three months [1]. Symptoms can either appear within these three months or persist from the initial date of sickness. Additionally, there should be no other related diagnosis within the last two months that could explain the symptoms. Always talk to your GP if you are experiencing symptoms similar to Long Covid. They will be able to speak with you about the next steps and what treatment may be necessary.

Who Has a High Risk of Long Covid?

According to the Royal Australian College of GPs [2], approximately 5% of those who catch Covid-19 also get ‘Long Covid.’ However, these symptoms are more likely to occur in older, more unwell and those who experienced more severe Covid-19 symptoms initially. An Australian study published in The Lancet, showed that individuals who are female, over 50 years and had more chronic diseases (e.g. high blood pressure, kidney disease, etc.) had a higher risk of developing Long Covid [3].

Long Covid Symptoms

Symptoms of Long Covid will vary from person to person. As mentioned earlier, symptoms can either be new or persist since the first infection. Examples of common symptoms include [4]:

Fatigue or easily being tired
Coughing
Being short of breath
Joint or muscle pain
Being anxious and low mood
An altered sensation of taste and/or smell
Mild chest pain
Difficulty concentrating

However, if you have the following symptoms after being diagnosed with Covid, you should call emergency services on 000.

Severe or progressively worsening breathlessness/difficulty breathing
Severe chest pain and/or uncontrolled increase in heart rate
New or worsening confusion
Difficulty keeping awake and drowsiness

What Causes Long Covid?

At the moment, more research is being conducted about what may be causing Long Covid symptoms. However, several hypotheses are being researched by scientists. Examples of potential Long Covid causes include [5]: Small blood clots restrict blood flow to vital parts of the body, including the brain and organs. Persistent virus that continues to live inside the body, such as the muscle, gut and brain. An immune system that continues to work over time, even after the initial recovery. As noted earlier, there are also risk factors that may increase the chance of an individual developing this health condition, including:

Those with more chronic diseases (e.g. high blood pressure, COPD, etc.)
Female
Over the age of 50
Those who had more severe symptoms when first catching Covid

Long Covid Test and Diagnosis

If you suspect you may have Long Covid, please talk to your GP. A history of your condition and symptoms will be able to guide your GP about a diagnosis and what treatments may be appropriate. Currently, there is no single test that will be able to diagnose Long Covid. Depending on your circumstances, a series of examinations may be required, including [6]:

Listening to your lungs and breathing patterns
A lung function test
Chest x-ray, CT scan and/or MRI imaging (e.g. lungs, heart, brain etc.) to view what could be occurring inside the lungs
Physical tests
Psychological and mental health checks
General blood tests

Long Covid Treatment

Most people who have Long Covid, experience one or several general symptoms (e.g. fatigue, breathlessness, etc.). As a result, no single treatment or medication can be prescribed for all symptoms. Your GP may provide advice and treatment to help control these symptoms.

Lifestyle Advice

One of the most practical ways of managing Long Covid symptoms is by changing your lifestyle choices and habits [2]. Referrals to other healthcare professionals, such as exercise physiologists and dietitians, may assist with these lifestyle habits. Your GP may suggest the following:

Improving your sleep patterns
Optimising your nutrition and diet
Relaxation strategies
Exercise and physical activity based on your symptoms
Breathing exercises
Stop smoking
Reduce alcohol consumption
Strategies to conserve energy (e.g. pace yourself, plan ahead, prioritise essential activities, etc.)

Medication

Your GP may also prescribe medications depending on your symptoms as needed. Examples of these medications include painkillers and antibiotics.

Mental Health Support

Anxiety and depression are common symptoms associated with Long Covid. Your GP may be able to provide mental health support and/or refer you to other services (e.g. online support, face-to-face counselling, etc.). Self-care and strategies to help you look after yourself are also important, including:

Being healthy (e.g. drinking water, nutrition, etc.)
Reaching out to friends and family
Schedule activities that you find enjoyable and relaxing

Referrals to Other Health Professionals

Depending on your symptoms, your GP may refer you to other health professionals to find different management strategies and treatments. Examples include:

Psychologists
Counsellors
Physiotherapists
Occupational therapists
Exercise physiologists
Dietitians
Nutritionists
Speech pathologists
Medical specialists

How to Avoid Long Covid?

The best way to avoid Long Covid is to prevent yourself from catching Covid-19 initially. Prevention is always better than cure. Being vaccinated, hand hygiene and wearing a mask in closed public spaces can help avoid catching Covid-19.

Recovery

Symptoms of Long Covid last at least three months after the initial Covid-19 infection. However, the time taken to recover will vary from person to person. Always talk to your GP about your condition and symptoms to assist with your recovery.

Complications

Long Covid affects everyone differently depending on its severity and symptoms. Complications of Long Covid can include:

Difficulty returning to your usual routine (e.g. work, exercise, etc.)
Difficulty concentrating and focussing on tasks
Low energy and mood
Loss of taste and smell
Kidney damage
Long-term heart problems
Long-term breathing issues

Receiving quality care from highly experienced doctors is essential for a prompt diagnosis and receiving the correct medical treatment. With 24-7 MedCare, you can experience telemedicine from the convenience of your own home. Our friendly online doctors will be available 24/7 for a consultation, anytime and anywhere in Australia.

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