In the past couple of months, the spread of Covid-19 in Bali has indeed continued to slow down quite significantly. The virus has stayed with us for a long time, indeed. Moreover, there have been more reports regarding cases of people suffering from Covid-19 symptoms for weeks or even months after their initial infection.
There are still many unanswered questions related to this novel virus. Therefore, sufferers of this condition called ‘Long Covid’ are often dismissed. In many cases, their symptoms were considered anxiety-related. This situation often left these long-term sufferers feeling confused and hopeless.
To keep your loved ones safe and healthy starts with understanding all we need to know during this ongoing pandemic. In this article, we will discuss all the must-know basics related to Long Covid. Moreover, to give an understanding on when a person needs to consult a GP.
What exactly is Long Covid?
The term Long Covid itself is quite self-explanatory. It is a condition in which common symptoms of Covid-19 last for weeks or even months after the initial infection. It is a condition that we know as post-Covid-19 syndrome.
So far, researchers have found that the possibility of suffering from Long Covid does not seem to relate to the severity level of your symptoms when you initially infected with the virus. Thus, the patients who experienced mild symptoms are as likely to suffer from long-term symptoms as those who had severe symptoms.
What are the symptoms of Long Covid?
There are various symptoms that one can suffer from after recovering from a Covid-19 infection. However, reports have shown that the most common symptoms include fatigue or extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, brain fog, chest pain, insomnia, heart palpitations, joint pain, and pins and needles.
Other common symptoms are dizziness, loss of appetite, diarrhea, stomachache, fever, cough, headache, persisting changes to the sense of smell or taste, sore throat, rashes, depression, and anxiety.
READ MORE: Q&A – Having a Baby during the Covid-19 Pandemic
At which point is it Long Covid and when should I contact a GP?
Recovery time from Covid-19, of course, varies from one person to another. Many people feel better in several days or weeks, as aforementioned. However, there are some others who fall into the category of long-term sufferers. If you have tested negative for the virus and still experience symptoms for four weeks or more after your initial infection, it is best to contact your GP.
What will happen at my appointment with the GP?
During your appointment, your GP will ask you questions about your symptoms and how they have been affecting you.
Depending on your symptoms, your GP might suggest several tests to rule out other conditions that may contribute to your symptoms. These tests might include a blood test, checking your heart rate and blood pressure, and a chest X-ray.
READ MORE: Post Covid-19 Tests You Should Take After Recovery
The results of the above tests will help your doctor decide the best treatment for you. Your doctor can also suggest a specialist who can provide you the care you need for your full recovery.
If you believe that you might be suffering from Long Covid, please do not postpone to consult your GP as soon as possible.
And if any children in your household seem to display any of the above symptoms of Long Covid, please make sure to monitor their recovery and bring them in for an exam if the symptoms persist.
We sincerely hope that you stay well, and Prime Plus Medical Clinic Bali is here 24/7 if you ever need us.
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