Adapted from information produced by Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust.

COVID-19 is a new coronavirus. We are on a steep learning curve about how it behaves and guidance is constantly evolving. We are discovering more as time goes no, including the long-term side effects some people are experiencing.

It’s normal for ongoing symptoms to last for several months after you had COVID-19.

Recovering after COVID-19 may take time and the length of time varies from person to person. It’s important not to compare yourself to others.

Post-COVID-19 side effects can include:

• weak muscles and stiff joints
• extreme tiredness (fatigue) and a lack of energy
• a persistent cough
• loss of appetite, weight loss and/or swallowing difficulties
• sleep problems and nightmares or flashbacks, particularly if you were in an intensive care unit (ITU)
• memory problems, for example, not being able to remember some events, think clearly or being forgetful
• changes in your mood, anxiety or depression.

These side effects, which can last for a prolonged period, are called long Covid.

This series of leaflets provides some techniques to help manage some of your symptoms.

What if my symptoms do not improve?

The length of time that it takes to recover from COVID-19 varies from person to person.

The more severe your symptoms, the longer it might take for you to return to what is normal for you. If you are still experiencing symptoms after six to eight weeks, please contact your GP for further review.

Post COVID-19 support for patients and families

More information to support your recovery can be found at www.yourcovidrecovery.nhs.uk

Asthma UK and The British Lung Foundation have set up a support hub to provide information and dedicated support for people why have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and their family members. Visit www.post-covid.org.uk

Go to leaflet…

• Long Covid
• Managing your breathing
• Managing your cough and clearing your chest
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Emotional impact
• Communication and changes to your voice
• Food and diet
• Quit smoking
• Getting active

Contact us