What is Long-COVID?
Long-Covid is defined as signs and symptoms that persist for over 12 weeks post initial SARS-COV-2 infection (COVID-19) without any other probable diagnosis. The World Health Organisation estimates that 6% of people who had COVID-19 developed Long–COVID. The topic of Long-COVID is still emerging and there is still limited evidence on the chronic implications on the human body. However, early evidence suggests that Long-COVID is a multisystem disorder.
What are the Effects of Long-COVID on us?
As previously mentioned Long-COVID is a multisystem disorder which includes potential impacts on the nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, immune, endocrine, gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal systems. The most common reported symptoms of Long-COVID can be classed as either pulmonary or systemic effects. The major pulmonary effects of Long-COVID include shortness of breath and dry cough. The highest reported systemic effects include fatigue and post exertional malaise (PEM). Both pulmonary and systemic symptoms are reported as relapsing-remitting which means symptoms fluctuate. In terms of triggers the most common reported include physical activity and stress.
How can Exercise be Used to Manage Long-COVID?
Long-COVID is linked to reduced exercise tolerance, decline in mobility and functional impairment. The goal of exercise is to manage the concerns listed without exacerbating symptoms. Yes, physical activity is a main trigger for Long-COVID symptoms. However, the type of exercise that induces symptoms is persistent exercise-induced breathlessness. This simply means that symptoms are only triggered when people over-exert themselves beyond their current capacity leading to after effects. This can be easily compared to when you go for a long walk without doing so for a couple months, the next day your legs may be a bit sore. Exercise needs to be introduced in a gradual manner starting at manageable levels then slowly increasing frequency. The starting point is different depending on the person, but utilising exercise physiology and physiotherapy services is a great way to ensure you are on the right path.
Who should you see About Long-COVID?
If you feel that you experience some of the effects noted in this blog I would suggest booking an appointment with your GP to determine the potential cause of your symptoms. If Long-COVID or any fatigue disorder is then diagnosed I would suggest seeing one of our Physiotherapists for early stage exercise prescription and manual therapy. For extended management of
Long-COVID through exercise therapy I would book in with one of our Exercise Physiologists. Your Path to Health is here to help make sure Long-COVID does not limit you and you can live the life you are destined to enjoy.
Written by:
Alex Pears – Exercise Physiologist