COVID-19 Long-Term Side Effects: Look for These Symptoms

COVID-19 took the world by storm and left long-lasting economic, social and health impacts. If you or a loved one have had coronavirus, you may be wondering if there are any long-term side effects of this virus. Below, we will cover some potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 and what symptoms to look for in the months after recovery.

How Were People Affected Initially?

Older adults and those with severe underlying medical conditions were at higher risk of developing complications from the COVID-19 illness. The virus affected everyone differently as some individuals only experienced flu-like symptoms and recovered quickly while others were hospitalized with more severe side effects such as pneumonia or lung damage.

Common COVID-19 Side Effects

Most people who have COVID-19 recover completely within a few weeks. Others continue to experience symptoms after the initial recovery for months to come. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look for according to the CDC:

  • Fatigue or tiredness

  • Brain fog (difficulty concentrating or thinking)

  • Memory or sleep problems

  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

  • Coughing

  • Joint pain, muscle pain, chest pain

  • Fast or pounding heartbeat (heart palpitations)

  • Loss of smell or taste

  • Anxiety or depression

  • Weight loss

  • Dizziness when you stand

  • Worsened symptoms post-physical or mental activities

How Can COVID-19 Impact Organs?

While COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs, it can also damage other vital organs which may increase the risk of long-term health problems. According to Mayo Clinic, organs that may be affected by COVID-19 include:

  • Heart – Imaging tests have shown lasting damage to the heart muscle, even in those who experienced mild symptoms. This can increase the risk of heart failure or other heart complications.

  • Lungs – COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs and is associated with a type of pneumonia that can damage the tiny air sacs in the lungs which results in scar tissue that can cause breathing problems.

  • Brain – COVID-19 may also increase the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. It can also cause strokes, seizures and Guillain-Barre syndrome (a condition that causes temporary paralysis).

Some individuals experienced severe inflammation in some of their organs and tissues (multisystem inflammatory syndrome).

Can COVID-19 Cause Blood Clots or Blood Vessel Problems?

Yes. In some cases, COVID-19 can make blood cells more likely to form clots and can weaken blood vessels. Large blood clots can cause heart attacks and strokes. It is believed that this potential side effect of COVID-19 stems from small clots that block capillaries in the heart muscle. Blood clots, in turn, can also affect the lungs, legs, liver and kidneys.

How Long Do Side Effects Last?

As research is still ongoing, it is difficult to predict the long-term side effects of having COVID-19. Currently, scientists are looking at the long-lasting effects of related viruses, such as the virus that causes severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in order to better understand what may result from this virus.

Contact Your Doctor If You Notice Symptoms

If you or a loved one are experiencing signs or symptoms that are out of the ordinary, reach out to your doctor, as they can help you address these symptoms. Don’t dismiss symptoms such as loss of smell, anxiety, depression or insomnia. If you experience chest pain, problems breathing, bluish lips or any other sign of a life-threatening problem, call 911 or emergency services immediately.

Questions?

We hope this helped you better understand the potential side effects of COVID-19. If you have any questions or need help finding the right ventilator for yourself or a patient, the team at Trace Medical is here to help. Start breathing better today. Contact us via phone at 888-627-0950 or on our website.

Sources
CDC, Mayo Clinic

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