Long COVID: persistent symptoms, assessment and practical next steps
Long COVID can affect different body systems and symptoms may improve, return or change over time. This guide explains what it is, what to record and when to seek care.
What Long COVID means
Long COVID, also called post COVID-19 condition, describes symptoms or health problems that continue or appear after SARS-CoV-2 infection. WHO describes it as usually occurring about three months after infection, lasting at least two months and not explained by another diagnosis. Definitions and clinical practice can vary, so an individual assessment matters.
Symptoms can look different from person to person
Frequently reported symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulty thinking or concentrating, sleep problems, cough, pain, dizziness and palpitations. Symptoms may fluctuate, improve and return. A symptom list alone cannot diagnose Long COVID because other conditions can cause similar problems.
Prepare useful information for a healthcare visit
Keep a short record of when symptoms began, their pattern, what makes them better or worse, previous COVID-19 illness or tests, medicines and how symptoms affect work, school, sleep or daily tasks. A clinician may consider other causes and decide whether examinations, tests or referrals are appropriate.
Care is tailored to the symptom and its impact
There is no single test or one treatment that fits everyone. Clinical care focuses on treating specific symptoms or conditions, reducing their effect on daily activities and supporting recovery. Avoid self-prescribing medicines or unproven treatments. Discuss rehabilitation and activity changes with a qualified clinician, especially if exertion worsens symptoms.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, bluish lips or skin, fainting, or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Sources
This content is general information, not a diagnosis or individual medical advice. Seek urgent help for severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.