Study shows, over half of the people who “recovered” from COVID-19, experienced post-COVID symptoms, also known as “long COVID”.
Long-COVID symptoms can be seen as ongoing breathing difficulties, fatigue, chest pain, headache, muscle aches, cognitive symptoms (“brain fog”), and anxiety/depression along with other symptoms (unique to individuals). In this study, researchers found that these symptoms were also present in people with influenza, however they found that a majority of patients experiencing these symptoms were the ones who experienced COVID-19.
Interestingly, the average age of patients experiencing long-COVID in this particular study was found to be of 46.3 years and more commonly in women than men. These are rather young individuals. In fact, a study conducted with young children also found that long-COVID can also be seen in the young and infant cohort.
So, what can be done about long-COVID?
Firstly, do not ignore any post-COVID symptoms, seek medical care. A recent study found that exercise can help with increased inflammation leading to high blood glucose level and depression caused by COVID-19. Interestingly, a previous study found that inactive patients recovered from COVID-19 compared to active patients were more likely to experience severe long-COVID symptoms.
Do vaccinations impact long-COVID?
Yes, most likely. Though there are mixed results on this. Most studies point towards a decrease in the likelihood of fully vaccinated patients who survived COVID-19 in experiencing long-COVID symptoms than compared to unvaccinated patients who survived COVID-19. Based on the new and emerging data, vaccinations continue to help individuals in the fight against COVID-19 and long-COVID.
A personal anecdote.
I have started to hear things like, “COVID only lasts for 5 days”, “I was totally ok after 5 days”, “I barely experienced any COVID symptoms”. These statements bother me. I am glad you think you did not experience the worst associated with COVID-19, but it does not mean that you encourage people to not take precautions. Human physiology is complicated and immune strength can vary from individual to individual. For the healthcare system to function optimally, it is essential that precautions are taken at an individual level. Get vaccinated! Stay safe!