Welcome to the Post-COVID Recovery blog. Most people fully recover from COVID-19 in 3 weeks. Some people continue to have symptoms much longer. These symptoms are varied and continue for varying lengths of time. The most common symptoms are fatigue, pain, shortness of breath, and a loss of smell and taste. Follow the Post-COVID Recovery expert blog for the latest developments, research trials, resources, and information about the coronavirus, long-term effects, and recovery.

Public blog

mss_0001849130

When is it considered post-COVID-19 syndrome?

It can take up to three weeks to recover from a COVID-19 infection. Mayo Clinic defines post COVID-19 syndrome as symptoms that continue four or more weeks after the start of a COVID-19 infection, either by symptoms or by a positive COVD-19 test. Some people with post COVID-19 syndrome may recover in a few weeks. For others it may take several months. Unfortunately, some people may have chronic symptoms that never go away.

Common symptoms include: 

  • Severe fatigue or tiredness, sometimes lasting days after activity 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Headache 
  • Troubles thinking 
  • Muscle or joint pain 

 Other less common symptoms include: 

  • Troubles sleeping 
  • Rapid heartbeat 
  • Dizziness
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Hair loss 
  • Altered taste or smell 
  • Tingling
  • Numbness 

Anyone who has had COVID-19 may develop continuing symptoms. It does seem to be more common in people who had a more severe course, especially for those who were hospitalized. It may also occur in those who initially had none or minimal symptoms. From our experience, we tend to see post-COVID-19 symptoms more commonly in women, and why this is remains unclear at this time. Find out more information on long term effects of COVID-19 on MayoClinic.org. Our Self-Care section is a great starting point.

For specifics on the tips recommended by Dr. Ganesh, see the self-care and the next steps tabs.

Testing

If you suspect you may have come into contact with COVID-19, or if you tested positive for COVID-19 and have recovered from the acute infection, you may be able to get tested for antibodies. Antibody testing cannot be done at home, but testing sites are becoming more readily available in many areas. Contact your primary care provider to discuss how to get tested. If you have not had a positive COVID-19 test or positive antibody testing, you may not be eligible for the Post-COVID-19 Care Clinic. Your primary care provider may be able to refer you to see one of our providers at Mayo Clinic for your specific symptoms. Learn more about COVID-19 diagnostic testing and antibody testing.

Know the Latest

Learn more about the most recent developments with post-COVID syndrome by following the Newsfeed and discuss your experience in the Post-COVID Recovery discussion group.