The world is starting to see the more long-term health and psychological effects of the pandemic. Many people around the world are suffering from what is known as ‘long COVID’. Julio Licinio is a physician leader, scientist, and editor-in-chief of world renowned scientific journal, Molecular Psychiatry. As research continues into the long term effects of the pandemic, he shares the signs and symptoms of long covid.
Even if your initial COVID infection was mild, symptoms can continue for weeks or even months afterwards. This is what is known as ‘long COVID’, and it effects everyone a little differently. Symptoms can include:
- Breathing issues such as cough and shortness of breath
- Cardiovascular problems such as chest pain and tightness or heart palpitations
- Digestive symptoms such as loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea
- Skin rashes and hair loss
- Dizziness
- Sore throat
- Loss or change in taste and smell
- Earache and ear ringing
- Joint and muscle pain
Long COVID can also cause a lot of brain and mental health issues such as:
- Memory issues and loss of concentration, also known as brain frog
- Headaches
- Insomnia or broken sleep
- Pins and needles
- Dizziness
- Delirium, especially in the elderly
- Problems with mobility
- Vision problems
- Symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Especially for people who suffered from severe infection, symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder
If you are struggling with any of these symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, it is important to consult your doctor about treatment plans.
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