Q&A: Is that a persistent cold, bad allergies or long COVID?

Introduction As the world continues to grapple with the effects of the novel coronavirus pandemic, new information and data emerge. One of the latest is the fact that some people infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can have symptoms of the illness lingering for years. This condition is called long COVID, post-COVID conditions, or postacute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), and is being studied by researchers around the world to understand its effects. What does PASC involve? Postacute sequelae of COVID-19 is defined as persistent symptoms that present more than 12 weeks after a positive COVID-19 test. The exact symptoms will vary from person to person, but could include fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain, cognitive impairment, worries, anxiety and depression. The severity of the symptoms may also range from mild to severe, and can last anywhere from weeks to months, or even years. Risk Factors Older adults, pregnant women and people with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart, kidney or lung diseases, are more likely to develop PASC after being infected with the virus. In addition, people who have been hospitalized due to COVID-19 are more likely to experience long-term effects, as well as those with a severe form of the illness. Diagnosis of PASC Due to the wide variety of symptoms, and the fact that it can take weeks or months for the symptoms to manifest and become chronic, diagnosing PASC can be a challenge. Physicians may run a variety of tests, such as blood tests looking for signs of organ damage and imaging scans to look for signs of inflammation. In addition, mental health screenings may be carried out to check for any signs of depression or other mental health issues. Treatment Currently, there is no specific treatment for PASC, and physicians instead focus on treating the root cause of the symptoms. For instance, if the patient has joint pain, the physician may suggest physical therapy or an exercise program to help alleviate the pain. In order to prevent the development of PASC, doctors advise people to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19 and to seek medical attention if they develop any of the virus’ symptoms. People should also practice social distancing, wear a face mask, and follow all relevant health and safety guidelines set forth by the government. Conclusion The novel coronavirus pandemic has changed the way the world works, and it is clear that some people who develop COVID-19 may suffer from long-term symptoms. Postacute sequelae of COVID-19 is defined as persistent symptoms that present more than 12 weeks after a positive COVID-19 test, and can include fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain, cognitive impairment, worries, anxiety and depression. At this time, there is no specific treatment for PASC, but doctors advise people to take all necessary precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19 and to seek medical attention if they experience any of the virus’ symptoms.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-medical-news/q-a-is-that-a-persistent-cold-bad-allergies-or-long-covid

Buy SuperforceX™