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What is
Post-COVID Syndrome?

Post-COVID Syndrome (sometimes called ‘long COVID’) can affect your physical and mental health. Symptoms can develop during or following a COVID-19 infection and continue for more than 12 weeks. There are lots of different symptoms, but among the most common are:
  • Coughing
  • Breathlessness
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Mental health issues like anxiety
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How common is
Post-COVID Syndrome?

Around 10% of patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 remain unwell beyond three weeks, and a smaller proportion for months.

How long does it last?

The available evidence tells us recovery is different for everyone. Symptoms may persist for weeks or months. That’s why it’s very important to find the right treatment and support. 

There is a lot you can do to help yourself, depending on your symptoms. Click here to find out more. 

Why are some people affected
and not others?

We don’t yet know why some people take longer to recover. There are some factors which may contribute. These include:

  • If you have a weak antibody response, the virus can remain in the blood

  • If you become re-infected with COVID-19

  • If you have inflammatory and other immune reactions
  • If you are weak or ‘deconditioned’ following your infection
  • If you have some mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress
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What treatment is
is available?

Depending on your symptoms, there are different treatments which can support your recovery including:
  • Respiratory (breathing) clinics
  • Physical therapy
  • Speech and language therapy
  • Mental health support
  • Wellbeing support

How to access support

Talk to your GP practice

If you were admitted to hospital due to your COVID-19 diagnosis, you may already be receiving follow up support from the hospital team. If not, please contact your GP surgery. They will help you to access the right support.

How you can help yourself

There is a lot you can do to support your own recovery from COVID-19. Visit the ‘Your COVID recovery’ website for more details:

Your Covid Recovery

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