Long-term COVID-19, also known as "long COVID" or "post-COVID syndrome," refers to the ongoing health problems that some people experience after recovering from an initial COVID-19 infection. These problems can range from mild to severe and can last for weeks or months after the initial infection.
Symptoms of long-term COVID-19 can include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, heart palpitations, cognitive dysfunction (brain fog), and muscle aches. Some people may also experience mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
It is not yet clear exactly how many people will experience long-term COVID-19 or why some people are more affected than others. Researchers are still working to understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 and how to best treat them.
If you have recovered from COVID-19 and are experiencing ongoing symptoms, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment. It is also important to continue following recommended public health measures, such as wearing a mask and practicing social distancing, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.