Long COVID: Understanding the Ongoing Effects and How To Manage Them

Recovering from COVID-19 can feel like a significant milestone—but for some, the journey doesn’t end there. While the causes of long COVID are not fully understood, what’s clear is that early recognition and thoughtful management can make a major difference.

Learn what long COVID is, how it affects those living with it and strategies to help you take charge of your recovery.

What is long COVID?

“Long COVID is a chronic condition that occurs at least three months after a COVID-19 infection and can persist for extended periods,” said Antonio Velasco, D.O., a physician at Inspira Medical Group Pulmonary. “Symptoms vary widely and may come and go, affecting different organ systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous systems.” Long COVID does not just affect people who had severe illness. It can occur in people who had mild symptoms or were asymptomatic during their initial illness.

Common symptoms of long COVID include:

• Fatigue 
• Shortness of breath 
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating 
• Elevated heart rate 
• Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears 
• Chronic headaches 
• Cognitive changes, like memory loss

Who is at risk of developing long COVID? While long COVID can affect anyone, studies suggest that some populations may be at greater risk, including:

Women or those assigned female at birth (AFAB) Adults 65 and older Individuals with preexisting health conditions People who were hospitalized or required intensive care during their initial COVID-19 illness

Children and those not at increased risk can experience long COVID, underscoring the importance of awareness and early intervention.

How does long COVID affect daily life?

Living with long COVID can be difficult and isolating, and symptoms can interfere with work, daily tasks and relationships. Some people may feel discouraged by the lack of immediate solutions, while others worry about the long-term effects on their health. “If you’re affected by long COVID, it’s essential to seek support and focus on strategies to manage symptoms while staying informed about new research and treatment options,” said Dr. Velasco.

What can I do to manage long COVID symptoms?

While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for long COVID, these strategies may help:

• Pace yourself: Allow your body time to recover by avoiding overexertion. Gradually increase activity levels as your energy allows.
• Practice breathing exercises: Techniques like diaphragmatic breathing can improve lung function and reduce feelings of breathlessness.
• Stay organized: Use tools like planners or apps to track tasks and appointments, especially if brain fog or memory issues are a concern.
• Engage in physical therapy: Gentle physical activity, guided by your doctor or physical therapist, can help you rebuild strength and stamina.
• Seek emotional support: Connect with friends, family or support groups to share your experiences and reduce feelings of isolation.

Is long COVID preventable?

“The best strategy to reduce your risk of long COVID is to stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations,” said Dr. Velasco. “Vaccination lowers the chances of severe illness, which decreases the likelihood of developing post-COVID conditions.” Other preventive measures include practicing good hygiene, ensuring clean indoor air and seeking prompt treatment if you test positive for COVID-19.

When should I seek medical care for long COVID?

Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing persistent symptoms that interfere with your daily life, such as extreme fatigue, difficulty concentrating, shortness of breath or chest pain. They may recommend evaluations, such as pulmonary function tests (PFTs) or cardiac monitoring, to identify the underlying cause and develop a tailored care plan to address your symptoms.

Long COVID is a complex and evolving condition, but you can manage symptoms and improve your quality of life with comprehensive care and support. Early intervention and ongoing care can make all the difference in your recovery journey.

Inspira offers an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to treating long COVID. Learn more about Inspira’s COVID-19 Recovery Program.