Does COVID-19 have long-term effects?

Since COVID-19 was discovered in China by the end of 2019, all eyes were on the identification of both the origin and the cure of the virus. Consequently, this year has been distinguished by the massive vaccination of prioritized population towards cutting the chains of transmission and the high mortality rates that, to date, have ended more than 2 million lives.

In the US, more than 26 million vaccines have been supplied. However, people that suffered and overcame the illness ask themselves what are the repercussions that remain with them and how to face them.

What we know:

Symptoms of COVID-19 can persist for months as it rapidly affects the lungs, heart and brain; exponentially increasing the risk of related health problems in the medium to long term.

Most people who have been infected with the virus recover easily and without further medical attention. Some never find out they have been infected, but many others are forced to live with symptoms of the disease even after they have recovered from infection.

The residual symptoms that have occurred most frequently are:

  • Tiredness and/or shortness of breath
  • Joint pain
  • Dry cough
  • Headache or body aches
  • Alopecia
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
  • Loss of sense of smell and/or taste among others.

However, considering that COVID-19 is a disease that mainly affects the lungs but can also damage other organs, the following conditions or diseases are also expected to be part of the long-term effects.

Heart failure

Even people who suffered from Coronavirus disease with mild symptoms have shown significant damage to the heart in their tests.

Parkinson’s / Alzheimer’s disease

Studies have shown worrisome neurological damage in patients who have suffered from the virus, even young ones.

Thrombosis

The covid virus increases the possibility of blood cells forming clots responsible for cardiovascular accidents, weakening of blood vessels, or other affectations in legs, kidneys and liver.

Respiratory problems

This is undoubtedly the most likely long-term effect of COVID-19, since being a respiratory disease, it causes severe damage to the lungs.

So far these are speculations since, as mentioned above, there is still no scientific information that allows identifying with certainty the long-term effects.

At Formé, we have a multidisciplinary medical team ready to accompany the community in every step they need, so if you think you need post COVID care, we invite you to schedule an appointment, come to our facilities or call 914 723 4900 to receive quality care at an affordable price.

How to take care of yourself of COVID-19?

The FDA and WHO have shared since the beginning of the pandemic some measures that allow the reduction of the risk of infection. Take the necessary precautions, and if necessary, call us and schedule your COVID-19 testing appointment or medical consultation.

    • Keep a safe distance from people around you
    • Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated areas
    • Wash your hands with soap and water frequently
    • Cover your mouth and nose with surgical masks whenever you are out in public
    • Avoid sharing plates, glasses, towels, linens, and other objects

At Formé, your health is our mission