How to Recover from Post-COVID or Long COVID

Many people who have recovered from COVID-19 continue to experience its symptoms. Most experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive dysfunction, among other symptoms. 

This condition is known as post-COVID or long COVID. It is unclear how long the condition lasts, and it tends to differ among individuals. It can last from three to six months or even longer. It is essential to find out how to recover from post-COVID or long COVID. 

Understanding Post-COVID
 

Post-COVID or long COVID are terms used to describe the continuing effects of COVID-19. The effects continue long after the initial illness. Patients who have recovered from the disease continue to experience symptoms for weeks or months. A different diagnosis will not explain these symptoms.

Research has shown that people who got severe COVID are more likely to experience respiratory symptoms, including breathlessness and coughing. It is too soon to determine the effects of full vaccination on long COVID rates. 

Recovering From Long COVID

Most people who get COVID have gone on to recover quickly. The effects can last longer for others, with symptoms improving and worsening. Experts are still studying data to determine how long the condition lasts. 

Patients who required hospitalization for the initial illness are more likely to experience long-term effects lasting more than five months. Reports indicate that some people experienced effects for 12 months or longer. 

Symptoms of Long COVID
 

The lasting symptoms of COVID-19 vary in individuals, and they include:
 

• Shortness of breath

• Persistent coughing

• Fatigue

• Brain fog/inability to focus or think straight

• Heart palpitations

• Difficulty sleeping

• Chest pain or tightness

• Anxiety and depression

• Joint and muscle pain

• Change in the sense of taste or smell

Treatment for Long COVID
 

There is no single test to diagnose long COVID as the condition has continued to evolve. If you are experiencing lasting symptoms of COVID, talk to your doctor. The doctor will help determine the severity of the symptoms and how to manage them.

How to Recover from Post-COVID
  

There are things that you can do to manage post-COVID symptoms. Avoid over-exerting yourself and take frequent breaks when performing challenging activities. Plan the best time of day to perform certain activities based on your energy levels. 

Perform simple strength exercises and build up gradually to strengthen your muscles. Find ways to boost your mood or mental health. Staying connected with loved ones and being kind to yourself will help. 

It is essential to remain active during this period. Planning and making notes will help you deal with brain fog. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, get enough sleep, and do things to stimulate your brain. Flexibility and strength exercises will help relieve joint and muscle pain. Talk to a health practitioner about the best exercise regimen.

Long COVID is not contagious and does not cause patients to test positive. It is the body’s reaction to the initial illness. 

For more on how to recover from post-COVID or long COVID, visit Bagnell Brain Center at our Pinecrest, Florida office. Call (305) 889-7488 today to schedule an appointment.

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