Lingering coughs, shortness of breath, diminished taste and smell, even heart and lung damage. We know the symptoms of COVID-19 infection can be severe, but how long can they linger?
A new study suggests that some COVID-19 symptoms can linger, and they may persist longer than you think. Researchers at multiple Chinese universities and the Chinese National Center for Respiratory Medicine surveyed 1,700 people about their symptoms six months after being hospitalized for COVID-19 infection. They found that 76% reported at least one long-lasting symptom.
The most common symptoms included fatigue and muscle weakness. Many reported mental health concerns as well, including ongoing symptoms of depression, anxiety and sleep problems.
They also found that those with severe infection were most likely to have abnormal lung testing and imaging six months after being hospitalized with the illness.
Although many may think symptoms of this virus may last a few weeks, this research tells us that they may linger much longer than expected.
