Long COVID (Post-COVID Syndrome)
Persistent symptoms lasting weeks or months after initial COVID-19 infection.
Overview
Long COVID, also called Post-COVID Conditions or Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), refers to health problems that persist for 4 or more weeks after the initial COVID-19 infection. It can affect anyone who had COVID-19, even those with mild illness. Common symptoms include fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations. The exact cause is still being studied, but may involve persistent viral particles, immune dysfunction, or damage from initial infection.
Common Age
Can affect any age; more common in 30-50 year olds
Prevalence
Estimated 10-30% of COVID cases develop some long-term symptoms
Duration
Weeks to months to years; many improve gradually
Common Symptoms
- Severe fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
- Brain fog (difficulty thinking or concentrating)
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Post-exertional malaise (symptoms worse after activity)
- Sleep problems
- Dizziness upon standing
- Chest pain
- Headaches
- Joint or muscle pain
- Anxiety or depression
- Changes in taste or smell
- Cough
Possible Causes
- Previous COVID-19 infection (any severity)
- Possible persistent viral fragments
- Immune system dysfunction
- Microclots in blood vessels
- Damage to organs during acute infection
- Autonomic nervous system disruption
- Reactivation of dormant viruses (like EBV)
Note: These are potential causes. A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause in your case.
Quick Self-Care Tips
- 1Pace yourself - avoid pushing through fatigue
- 2Rest before you feel you need to
- 3Keep a symptom diary
- 4Stay hydrated
- 5Eat regular, balanced meals
- 6Practice good sleep hygiene
- 7Avoid alcohol and caffeine
- 8Connect with support groups
Disclaimer: These are general wellness suggestions, not medical treatment recommendations. They may help manage symptoms but should not replace professional medical care.
Detailed Treatment & Solutions
1PACING
The most important strategy. Learn your energy limits. Rest BEFORE you crash. Break activities into small chunks. Use "spoons" or energy budgeting concepts. Never push through fatigue.
2BREATHING EXERCISES
Practice diaphragmatic breathing. Box breathing (4-4-4-4). Sing to rebuild lung capacity. Gradual breathing exercises as tolerated.
3COGNITIVE REHABILITATION
Use lists, reminders, and calendars for brain fog. Break tasks into smaller steps. Do cognitive tasks when you have most energy. Brain training apps may help some people.
4GRADUAL ACTIVITY
Avoid complete bed rest. Gentle stretching when possible. Very gradual increase in activity (if no post-exertional malaise). Swimming or recumbent cycling may be better tolerated.
5AUTONOMIC SUPPORT
For POTS symptoms: increase salt and fluids, compression garments, raise head of bed. Rise slowly from lying/sitting. Counter-maneuvers before standing.
6MEDICAL TREATMENTS
Work with a Long COVID clinic if available. Medications may help specific symptoms (low-dose naltrexone, antihistamines for MCAS symptoms, beta-blockers for POTS). Research is ongoing.
Important: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen. The solutions above are for educational purposes and may not be suitable for everyone.
Risk Factors
- Severe initial COVID infection
- Pre-existing chronic conditions
- Female sex
- Unvaccinated status
- High viral load
- Reinfection
Prevention
- COVID vaccination
- Avoiding reinfection
- Early treatment of acute COVID
- Rest during acute infection
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- Symptoms persist more than 4 weeks after COVID
- Severe fatigue affecting daily activities
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Heart racing or palpitations
- Confusion or memory problems
- Symptoms worsen with activity and don't recover
- New or worsening symptoms
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
If your symptoms are persistent, severe, or concerning, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
QWill I recover from Long COVID?
Most people with Long COVID do improve over time, though the timeline varies greatly. Some recover within a few months, while others have symptoms for a year or more. Pacing, appropriate medical care, and patience are important. Research is actively ongoing for treatments.
QCan mild COVID cause Long COVID?
Yes, Long COVID can develop even after a very mild initial infection. The severity of initial illness doesn't predict whether someone will develop Long COVID. This is why prevention through vaccination and avoiding infection remains important.
Related Conditions
Chronic Fatigue
Persistent tiredness that doesn't improve with rest and affects daily activities.
ME/CFS (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome)
A complex, long-term illness causing extreme fatigue that worsens after physical or mental effort.
Anxiety
Feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome.
Brain Fog
Difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, or remembering things.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Information last reviewed: January 2026
This page provides educational information only. It is not medical advice.