Long Covid symptoms may include the inability to concentrate due to tiredness.
So, what exactly is Long Covid and how long does it last?
Coronavirus or COVID-19 causes some people to experience symptoms which last weeks or months after the infection is gone. Most people will make a full recovery within 12 weeks, no matter how severe or mild their original Covid symptoms.
However, some people continue to experience some or many of the following symptoms after having Covid: fatigue, chest tightness or pain, poor sleep, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, tinnitus, joint pain, depression and anxiety, altered sense of taste or smell and difficulty concentrating.
What can this mean for me?
Long Covid can contribute to a loss of appetite and physical fitness can be exhausting for your body. You may find that if experiencing Long Covid symptoms, your usual form of exercise seems impossible. Recovery time after the simplest of tasks is much longer than you might expect if you have Long Covid.
You may have difficulty concentrating at work and at home. Changes in our relationships to those around us can have a profound effect on our health.
How can a Physiotherapist helpmy recovery?
At Physioflexx, we believe that exercise is not the only way to rehabilitate someone. We can also help advise you on the following :
the best environment for your recovery
useful changes to your home set up
equipment and routines that may optimise your energy levels
pain management
general fitness and the return to exercise safely
Long Covid sufferers may experience breathlessness, fatigue, depression and anxiety
What should I do if I think I have long Covid?
If you suspect you have symptoms of long Covid that have lasted more than 4 weeks please speak to your GP. If you'd like to book an appointment at Physioflexx, call our friendly team on 01560 483200, or book online at https://physioflexxayrshire.co.uk/contact/book-online/
In the meantime, here are some things you can do to help you recover.
Make sure you are eating and sleeping well (see our blog on How To Sleep Better here: https://bit.ly/2OlY9sb)
Take regular breaks from both physical and mental work. If you are able, go for a walk. Speak with someone you trust who can listen and support you in your recovery. Don't blame yourself for feeling fatigued or low in mood. Set reminders on your phone or Alexa. You could write lists to jog your memory. Prioritise things on your to-do list.
You can talk to the Samaritans by calling 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org for a reply within 24 hours. Alternatively you can text SHOUT to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line. For more information, visit www.yourcovidrecovery.nhs.uk
