Long COVID: recognizing and supporting
Persistent symptoms after infection
Dr. Sophie Martin
Infectiologist
In simple terms
Fatigue, brain fog, dyspnea: understanding and supporting long COVID.
Definition
Symptoms persisting >3 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection, with no other explanation. Affects 5-15% of infected individuals. More common in women, after severe infections, but possible after mild forms.
Main symptoms
- Intense fatigue, post-exertional malaise
- Brain fog: concentration, memory problems
- Dyspnea, persistent cough
- Taste/smell disturbances, palpitations, dizziness
- Anxiety, depression, sleep disorders
Management
Multidisciplinary approach: coordinating GP, respiratory and exercise rehabilitation physiotherapy (with caution), speech therapy for cognitive disorders, psychological support, rehabilitation programs. No specific validated treatment to date, but much research underway.
Practical advice
Pacing (graduated energy management), avoid deconditioning like overactivity. Adapted rhythm for return to work.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Symptom
- A sign you can feel or see that something is wrong, like pain, tiredness or a rash.
- Cognitive
- Related to thinking: memory, attention, learning and decision-making.
- Anxiety
- Ongoing worry or fear that is strong enough to affect daily life.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Long COVID: recognizing and supporting?
- Fatigue, brain fog, dyspnea: understanding and supporting long COVID.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Long COVID: recognizing and supporting?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Long COVID: recognizing and supporting?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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