If you’ve had coronavirus, your symptoms could continue for weeks or even months. Everyone who goes through Long COVID will experience it differently, however, there is a long list of common symptoms which are important to be aware of, & living with Long COVID may necessitate regular appointments with a General Practitioner or a Pain Specialist
So What are the Signs & Symptoms of Long COVID?
•Feeling out of breath
•Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
•Brain fog (issues with concentration and memory
•An ongoing cough which began when you contracted COVID-19
•A high temperature
•Dizziness
•Insomnia
•Pain in the joints
•Pins and needles
•Heart palpitations (if this occurs, seek urgent medical help immediately by calling an ambulance)
•Tightness in the chest region
•Pain in the chest area
•Feeling anxious
•Experiencing depression
•Earache
•Tinnitus
•Loss of appetite
•Stomach ache
•Diarrhoea
•Feeling sick
•Headaches
•Sore throat
•Skin rashes
•Changes in taste and smell [1]
What Should I Do If I Have Multiple Long COVID Symptoms?
Long COVID can have an impact all over your body & some people experience many different symptoms – either simultaneously, or at different times
If you are concerned about having any of the aforementioned symptoms a month or more after contracting COVID-19, then you should see your general practitioner as soon as possible [1]. It is a good idea to note down details about the symptoms you are experiencing, in a daily diary. For example, if you have pain your joints, then what time of day does this occur; what are you doing at the time; and what ameliorates the pain.
Your GP will ascertain the degree of your symptoms, and ask you about how they are affecting your day to day living. They may suggest certain types of treatment which they can prescribe, or they may refer your to a specialist. For instance, if you have had joint pain since Long COVID, then they may refer you to an experienced Pain Consultant. And if it is an urgent case, due to the long NHS waiting lists, the GP may suggest having a private consultation.
Having a Private Consultation With a Pain Specialist
Once your Pain Consultant has read over your medical notes, and conducted any necessary examinations and tests, they will draw up a Holistic Personalised Treatment Plan. This may involve multiple types of treatment including both conventional methods, and more cutting-edge options. They will explain everything to you in layman’s terms, and invite you to ask any questions.
Reference
[1]. Asthma and Lung UK (2022). “Common symptoms of Long COVID.”
https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/long-covid/what-is-long-covid/common-symptoms
