What Is Long COVID? Is It Contagious? Key Signs and Symptoms

COVID-19’s impact continues for many through lingering symptoms, even after recovery. Here’s what to look for and when to seek medical help.

COVID-19 infections may have lessened in severity for most, but the concern of "long COVID" still looms. Several studies across the glob have discussed this condition, formally known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). Defined by persistent symptoms after a COVID-19 infection, these effects can range from mild to disabling, lasting weeks, months, or even years.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, long COVID is characterized by thepresence of at least one symptom for at least three months following infection.

Over 200 symptoms have been documented in long COVID cases, with the most common including fatigue, brain fog, and fever. Research estimates that 10-30% of individuals, including adults and children, who contracted COVID-19 may experience long COVID symptoms.

Dr. Amit P. Gawnde, a pulmonologist in Mumbai, explains that long COVID, also known as Post-COVID Inflammatory Syndrome, results from the lingering inflammation caused by the virus, which can affect the body’s tissues. Even though the initial infection resolves, the damage it caused may persist, leading to ongoing symptoms.

What is Long COVID?
According to the Open Medicine Foundation, long COVIDis more prevalent among those who had severe infections but can also affect individuals with mild cases. Some may experience symptoms later, without realizing they initially had COVID.

Whole-Body Symptoms
Long COVID symptoms can impact the entire body, even in those who had mild initial infection. Reports indicate symptoms can persist for months or years. These include cardiovascular issues, breathing difficulties, and significant fatigue.

Representational Image (Freepik)

Fatigue: Intense tiredness that worsens with physical or mental exertion.

Muscle and Joint Pain: Persistent soreness and weakness.

Fever or Chills: Recurring temperature fluctuations.

Lung Symptoms
Dyspnea, or shortness of breath, is one of the common lung-related symptoms of long COVID:

Breathing difficulties

Persistent cough

Reduced endurance due to lower oxygen levels

Heart Symptoms
Long COVID can also lead to heart complications, such as inflammation of the heart muscle, resulting in:

Heart palpitations or a racing heartbeat

Irregular heartbeat

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Nervous System Symptoms
COVID-19 can affect the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. This may result in:

Headaches

Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially after standing

Pins-and-needles sensation

Changes in taste or smell

Seizures

Cognitive issues like brain fog, memory lapses, sleep disorders, and mental health challenges like depression or anxiety

However, these symptoms are rare in individuals without any mental health history.

Digestive Symptoms

Many with long COVID experience digestive disturbances due to an imbalance of gut bacteria, known as dysbiosis.

Changes in appetite

Abdominal discomfort

Diarrhea or constipation

Heartburn

Other Symptoms
Additional symptoms may include:

Skin rashes

Hair loss

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or hearing loss

Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes)

Vision changes

Swelling in the neck

Shaky hands

Menstrual irregularities and worsened PMS

Erectile dysfunction

Representational Image (Freepik)

Long COVID Symptoms in Children
Initially, it was believed that children had a low risk for long COVID. However, recent studies suggest that between 10-20% of children with acute COVID infections may develop persistent symptoms, including:

Persistent fever

Stomach pain

Digestive issues

Skin rashes

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Bloodshot eyes

Is Long COVID Contagious?
Long COVID is not contagious. Though the initial infection phase is contagious, lingering symptoms cannot be transmitted between people. However, if you have a cough, it’s still wise to cover your mouth as a precaution.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
Long COVID symptoms can vary widely and may be challenging to describe. If symptoms persist or become severe, contact your healthcare provider, as long COVID is recognized as a legitimate medical condition. Seek urgent medical care if you experience:

Trouble breathing

Pale, gray, or blue skin or lips

Chest pain or pressure

Severe abdominal pain

Confusion or unusual behavior

Difficulty staying awake

Dr. Gawnde advises heart and diabetes patients to stay vigilant with regular check-ups.

"Long COVID isn’t limited to severe cases; mild cases can also lead to long-term symptoms,” he adds. Treatment varies based on individual symptoms, focusing on reducing inflammation through medication, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments.