It is a complex medical situation which is still not fully understood.
12 Apr, 2023
As per the CDC, long COVID can be defined as the lingering symptoms that might continue to persist even after the person has recovered from COVID-19 infection.
Source: ThehealthsiteThese conditions can include a wide range of ongoing and returning health problems that might continue for days, months and even years after recovery from the infection.
Source: ThehealthsiteUnderstanding why some people are more vulnerable to long COVID is not straightforward. The severity of the infection can be an important factor but it solely cannot explain long COVID.
Source: ThehealthsiteAs per studies, long COVID symptoms can be put under four clusters, cardiac and renal-related problems, respiratory and sleep problems, neurological problems and digestive problems.
Source: ThehealthsiteStudies have shown that the body’s inability to clear off the virus could lead to long COVID. Viral proteins have been found in various organs including the brain and even in the blood.
Source: ThehealthsiteCOVID-19 has been found to cause changes in the number and functioning of white blood cells (that fight infection) and has been associated with dysregulation of the immune system.
Source: ThehealthsiteAs per studies, the level of coronavirus RNA in the patient’s blood, the presence of antibodies, reactivation of EBV (herpes-causing virus in the human body) and type 2 diabetes are some factors associated with increased risk of long COVID.
Source: ThehealthsiteChronic fatigue along with brain fog, body aches, stomach disturbances and irregular heart rates have been some common symptoms witnessed in long COVID.
Source: ThehealthsiteLong COVID has also been associated with inflammation of heart muscles, dysfunction of cells in the blood vessels, clot formation, changes in the menstrual cycle, loss of nerve fibres in the eyes and other sensory difficulties like the reduced sensation of smell.
Source: ThehealthsiteThanks For Reading!