Lingering Symptoms of COVID-19
There are many symptoms associated with COVID-19 infection. Not everyone will experience the same symptoms, and many people are completed asymptomatic. However, unfortunately, there are some symptoms of COVID-19 that can linger. While people who are over 60 or have underlying medical conditions are the most likely to experience lingering COVID-19 symptoms, many young people have experienced symptoms for weeks or even months after getting infected.

What Are Possible Lingering Symptoms of COVID-19?
The most common long-term symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue
- Reduced ability to exercise
- Reduced ability to carry out daily activities
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Loss of smell and taste
- Problems sleeping
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- Anxiety
- Low mood
- Heart palpitations
In some people, lasting symptoms of COVID-19 pose a significant health risk. For those experiencing symptoms that impact the heart, lungs, and brain, it’s important to visit your physician to manage and monitor the symptoms. Potential long-term symptoms that affect these major organs include:
- Damage to the heart muscle, which may increase the risk of future heart complications, including heart failure
- Damage to the alveoli in the lungs due to pneumonia commonly linked to COVID-19, which may cause breathing issues in the long-term
- Seizures, strokes, and Guillain-Barre syndrome (a syndrome causing temporary paralysis)
- An increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease
The COVID-19 pandemic is still ongoing, and much research is yet to be done regarding the long-term effects of the virus. It’s recommended to be monitored by your physician after COVID-19 infection so that any lingering symptoms can be promptly identified and addressed.
If you recovered from COVID-19 but are experiencing lingering symptoms, visit Family Medical Centers to see one of our trained physicians. After an evaluation, we’ll make sure that you receive the care you need to protect your long-term health.