Around two million people in the UK are living with long Covid – a condition with symptoms that can be devastating. Here’s the warning signs and where to turn if you need help
Two million people across the UK are still grappling with the disease that sparked the Covid pandemic – and with new variants on the rise, many more diagnoses are anticipated.
However, with pandemic protocols now a distant memory, some are left wondering where to turn. Long Covid, or post-Covid syndrome, can strike individuals of any age, with persistent symptoms lasting over 12 weeks.
According to the NHS, these symptoms include extreme fatigue, breathlessness, muscle aches, joint pain, and difficulty concentrating. Patients may also experience prolonged side effects following a standard Covid infection, which could subside and does not necessarily indicate they have Long Covid.
These include loss of smell, chest pain or tightness, sleep difficulties, pins and needles, tinnitus, rashes, coughs, headaches, sore throats, diarrhoea, stomach aches, and loss of appetite. In the aftermath of the pandemic, the NHS established specific long Covid services across England and developed a wealth of resources and information for patients to manage their condition if possible.
As of April 2024, more than 100 NHS trusts, hospitals, and medical centres provide these services for adults, reports the Express. 13 of these post-Covid syndrome hubs also provide specialist paediatric care for children and young people with Long Covid.
The hubs offer a range of services including physical, cognitive and psychological assessments, diagnostic tests, and management or referrals to Covid rehabilitation, treatment and a range of other support.
If you suspect you may be suffering from Long Covid, or have had Covid symptoms for more than four weeks, it’s recommended to reach out to your GP. They can guide you on the best course of action based on your individual situation.
This might involve being referred to Long Covid service hubs, especially if your symptoms are significantly affecting your life. If your daily routine is being severely disrupted by your condition, the Long Covid SOS portal provides a range of help, advice, information and next steps for patients who may be in crisis due to their illness.
