Long Covid
What is Long Covid?
Long Covid refers to people with:
- ongoing symptomatic Covid 19 - signs and symptoms of Covid 19 from 4 to 12 weeks
- post Covid 19 syndrome (Long Covid) - signs and symptoms that develop during or after an infection consistent with Covid 19, continue for more than 12 weeks and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis
What are the symptoms?
- Extreme tiredness
- Depression and anxiety
- Breathlessness
- Fast heart-beat
- Widespread pain
- Chest pain or tightness
- Pins and needles
- Changes in tast and smell
- Changes in sleep/difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating and memory (brain fog)
What do I do if I have symptoms?
The first step is to contact your GP. Please note that if your symptoms get worse, call 111 for more advice or for a medical emergency, dial 999 immediately.
Your GP will undertake further tests to rule out any other conditions first (it is really important to make sure your symptoms are not being caused by other conditions, for example cancer).
Depending on your test results, your GP may then refer you to the Barking, Havering Redbridge University Trust (BHRUT) Long Covid Service.
What support does the BHRUT Long Covid clinic offer?
The Long Covid Service is a multi-disciplinary service specifically set-up to support patients experiencing symptoms of Long Covid.
The team is made up of the following members: occupational therapists, physiotherapists, general practitioners, rehabilitation support workers, psychologically trained staff and administrative staff.
Support for Long Covid depends on the symptoms you are experiencing and the impact on your day-to-day life.
The Long Covid Service may suggest:
- onward referrals to other organisations or services which may be able to support you
- rehabilitation support which is currently being set-up by the Long Covid service including group-based intervention
- support in the community including things such as support with finances and living a healthy lifestyle
- access to self-management material allowing patients to support themselves.
Resources
- Long COVID - A patient support group with a range of resources and patient stories.
- NHS Long Covid information