2 Years of COVID-19: How Do You Know If You Have Long COVID?
The initial wave of COVID-19 may be behind us, but for many, the battle didn’t end with a negative test. Millions of people continue to experience lingering symptoms weeks or even months after recovering. So, how do you know if you have long COVID? Recognising long COVID symptoms early can help you seek appropriate treatment and regain your quality of life.
Whether you're 25 or 45, this article explains the most common signs, why they persist, and how to handle them—especially if you're part of the 18-35 age group in the US.
What Is Long COVID?
Long COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), refers to ongoing symptoms that last beyond 4 weeks after the initial infection.
It can affect anyone, regardless of age or severity of the initial infection—even those who had mild or no symptoms.
How Common Is Long COVID?
- According to the CDC, around 1 in 5 adults who had COVID-19 may develop long COVID symptoms.
- The World Health Organization estimates that 10–20% of recovered patients experience lingering effects for weeks or months.
- Women and people aged 20–50 are more likely to report long-term symptoms.
Most Common Long COVID Symptoms
Long COVID can affect multiple body systems. Here are the most reported issues:
1. Fatigue
Overwhelming exhaustion that doesn't improve with rest is a hallmark of long COVID.
2. Brain Fog
Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or slowed thinking—similar to the effects of sleep deprivation.
3. Shortness of Breath
Even walking a few steps can feel exhausting, even months after recovery.
4. Chest Pain or Palpitations
Some experience tightness or a racing heart despite normal ECG results.
5. Muscle and Joint Pain
Body aches and stiffness, especially after physical activity, are reported often.
6. Loss of Smell or Taste
This can persist for months or return inconsistently.
7. Anxiety and Depression
Lingering health concerns, combined with isolation, can trigger mental health issues.
8. Sleep Disturbances
Insomnia, restless nights, or hypersomnia are common complaints post-COVID.
9. Menstrual Irregularities (Women)
Some women report delayed cycles, heavier bleeding, or increased cramps after COVID.
Real-Life Example
Maria, 27, from New York, recovered from a mild case of COVID in 2021. Months later, she found herself unable to climb stairs without losing breath and struggled to focus during meetings. Her doctor diagnosed her with long COVID. With physical therapy and mental health support, Maria now manages her symptoms better.
Why Do Long COVID Symptoms Occur?
Scientists are still exploring the exact causes, but possible reasons include:
- Persistent inflammation in the body
- Immune system dysfunction
- Viral particles lingering in tissues
- Autonomic nervous system imbalance
Diagnosing Long COVID
There’s no single test for long COVID. Diagnosis is based on medical history and ruling out other conditions. Common assessments include:
- Blood tests for inflammation markers
- Chest X-rays or CT scans
- ECGs for heart-related symptoms
- Neurocognitive exams (for brain fog)
Who’s at Higher Risk?
While long COVID can affect anyone, higher risk factors include:
- Women aged 20–50
- People with underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, asthma)
- Unvaccinated individuals
- Those who were hospitalised due to COVID
Explore more on COVID-19 and pregnancy impact or learn which COVID vaccine is best based on medical updates.
Long COVID vs. COVID Reinfection
Many people confuse long COVID with reinfection. Here’s the difference:
- Long COVID: Symptoms persist after initial infection without testing positive again
- Reinfection: New symptoms appear, and COVID test is positive again
If you're unsure, consult your healthcare provider for testing and evaluation.
Managing Long COVID: What Can You Do?
There’s no one-size-fits-all cure yet, but many symptoms can be managed with the right strategies:
Physical Tips
- Gradual physical activity (start with walking or stretching)
- Breathing exercises to improve lung function
- Hydration and nutrient-rich food to rebuild strength
Mental Health Tips
- Practice mindfulness or guided meditation daily
- Seek therapy if dealing with anxiety or depression
- Limit screen time and get adequate sleep
Medical Support
- Visit a post-COVID care clinic if available
- Regular check-ups for heart and lung health
- Discuss supplements like Vitamin D or Omega-3 with your doctor
FAQs
Q: Can vaccinated people still get long COVID?
A: Yes, but the risk and severity are usually lower than in unvaccinated individuals.
Q: How long do long COVID symptoms last?
A: It varies—some recover in 2–3 months, others may take a year or more.
Q: Is long COVID contagious?
A: No. It's not due to active infection, so it cannot be transmitted.
Q: Is long COVID treatable?
A: There is no universal cure, but most symptoms can be managed with therapy and support.
How to Talk to Your Doctor
If you suspect long COVID, prepare a symptom diary to show your doctor:
- When did symptoms start?
- What activities worsen them?
- Are symptoms constant or do they come and go?
This can help the doctor suggest tests or refer you to a long COVID specialist.
Final Thoughts
Long COVID symptoms can disrupt everyday life, but awareness is the first step to recovery. If you or someone you know is feeling “off” months after recovering from COVID-19, don’t ignore it. With the right help and patience, improvement is possible.
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