Uncovering the Unseen Symptoms 6 Months After COVID-19
Since the inception of the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers have been keenly studying the virus’s after-effects on the human body. With the gradual surge in the number of infected individuals, physicians and medical professionals worldwide are observing that those who have survived COVID-19 are still facing health issues months after their recovery.
The initial symptoms of COVID-19 are well-known, including fever, difficulty breathing, coughing, and fatigue. However, several patients complain of post-illness symptoms. According to research carried out by scientists at an American institution, over 70% of patients experienced severe exhaustion or fatigue, over 60% have shortness of breath, and 55% have headaches.
These symptoms can persist for long periods, hampering the individual’s daily routine and regular activities. Patients who suffer from these post-illness symptoms are commonly referred to as “long haulers.” Long haulers are people who face symptoms for six months or more after testing positive for COVID-19.
Unseen symptoms:
Apart from the visible post-illness symptoms such as fatigue or shortness of breath, some long haulers also face several unseen symptoms. In various cases, patients reported that they had difficulty concentrating, had memory loss, or difficulty sleeping. In some rare cases, patients faced hair loss, skin rashes, or inflammation in their organs.
These symptoms tend to be severe and can last for months, preventing individuals from setting foot back into their daily lives.
Cause of Symptoms:
The exact cause of these post-COVID-19 symptoms is still under investigation. However, studies suggest that it could be due to the continuous presence of the virus in the body of the long-hauler, triggering an inflammatory response. Long haulers are also prone to blood clots, which can lead to various severe symptoms.
Treatment and Solutions:
As there is no one-size-fits-all solution to treat post-COVID-19 symptoms, patients are advised to seek medical attention and adopt self-care measures. In most cases, doctors prescribe physical therapy, cardiac rehabilitation, and breathing exercises to strengthen the patient’s body.
Individuals are also urged to modify their lifestyle and diet, focusing on proper nutrition and exercise. Mental and emotional support also play a significant role in aiding the patient in their road to recovery.
Conclusion:
Post-COVID-19 symptoms can prove to be debilitating and affect individuals for months, hampering their normal routine and actions. Researchers and medical professionals continue to study this virus to gain in-depth knowledge and explore better solutions to aid individuals in their recovery. However, as long as the pandemic endures, prevention remains the best approach to combat the virus’s effects.
