What is Long COVID

Long COVID is not a medical term but is used for a group of symptoms experienced by patients who contracted COVID 19 and whose symptoms linger longer than the usual 2-week period after the virus. It covers a wide range of symptoms including fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches, heavy limbs, loss of smell or taste, muscle weakness, foggy brain, low grade fever, hair loss, swollen lymph glands.

It is thought that between 10 to 20% people are suffering with Long COVID.

More is being learnt about its lasting effects. the National Institute for Health Care Excellence, NICE suggest that four main syndromes are involved, permanent damage to the lungs and heart, post viral fatigue syndrome, post intensive care symptoms and ongoing symptoms of COVID.

Apart from the physical symptoms many are suffering with mental, emotional and psychological effects for instance anxiety, depression and PTSD.

Acupuncture

If you are struggling with symptoms of Long COVID such as fatigue, headaches, symptoms similar to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, CFS or ME, acupuncture may help. Acupuncture has been shown to improve fatigue and quality of life for CFS suffers and has been proven to help with headaches, insomnia, anxiety, depression and pain.  I have seen many patients over the years for such symptoms. Acupuncture works well alongside conventional medicine.

Other help is available

Also, the NHS has set up an online rehab help service called The COVID Recovery which offers advice and general help: Your COVID Recovery | Supporting your recovery after COVID-19