Long-COVID

Long-COVID

Long Haul COVID is a term used to describe the lingering health effects experienced by some individuals who have had COVID-19.

It occurs when symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, headaches, cognitive issues, and joint pain persist after the virus has been cleared from the body.

While the exact cause is still unknown, experts believe that Long Haul COVID is the result of long-term damage to the lungs, heart, and other organs caused by the virus.

Symptoms

People who experience post-COVID conditions most commonly report:

General symptoms (Not a Comprehensive List)

  • Tiredness or fatigue that interferes with daily life
  • Symptoms that get worse after physical or mental effort
  • Fever

Respiratory and heart symptoms

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Cough
  • Chest pain
  • Fast-beating or pounding heart (also known as heart palpitations)

Neurological symptoms

  • Difficulty thinking or concentrating (sometimes referred to as “brain fog”)
  • Headache
  • Sleep problems
  • Dizziness when you stand up (lightheadedness)
  • Pins-and-needles feelings
  • Change in smell or taste
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Emotional flatness

Digestive symptoms

  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain

Other symptoms

  • Joint or muscle pain
  • Rash
  • Changes in menstrual cycles

Resources

Survivor Corps
Post-COVID Conditions
Some people experience new or ongoing symptoms lasting weeks or months.