Still on oxygen after a year.

I was also hospitalized in November 2021 with Covid pneumonia. Fortunately I was only there for one week and sent home with oxygen. I used it for one week. When I was sent home I was afraid it was too early. I was terrified to go to sleep. Living alone-who would help me if something went wrong?? I know I didn’t experience the same thing you did-but sometimes it helps to hear from others. This group was a great find. I wish I’d known about it alot earlier than I did! It may have saved me some anxiety to know I wasn’t the only one experiencing these symptoms.
I’m 57 years old and very active. Treadmill 45 minutes a day at least 5 days a week. It took me a LONG time to get my breathing back. I’ve never been an anxious person-until this happened. I would panic every time I had something different go on with my body. I don’t panic now, but I’m sure aware of what goes on with my body now.
I am still dealing with the brain fog/lightheaded feeling. I’ve done physical therapy, seen an ENT, neurologist and my own family physician.
I’m so tired of tests and hearing “everything looks normal”. I’m not close to Mayo Clinic. So I scheduled an appointment to see a neurologist at Northwestern in Chicago next week. Hoping they will be able to provide answers.
All my other symptoms have gone away thankfully. It’s been a rough road-for all of us!
I’m hoping you and everyone else finds relief SOON!!
Take care and hang in there!!

My heart goes out to you both!
I had a "mild" case of Covid in early December 2022. Over 6 weeks later, I have weird symptoms that have put my normal active life on total hold. This virus is still a mystery and it looks as if it will be a long time before science comes up with some real answers. In the meantime, lets keep on with our journey to renewed health.

Husband had Covid omnicron February 2022. Entered ER with 79 ox sat but no fever. Had Covid pneumonia and ARDS. 18 days but no vent. Barcitinib saved his life but Covid left him with pulmonary fibrosis in bottom third of lungs and 34% pulmonary function. Went home on 3L oxygen but after a couple of weeks was rehospitalized sets dropped to low 80s. Lung inflammation. Has been hospitalized 6 times with needing 6-10 L of oxygen. Last two times it has been retaining CO2 That put him in hospital. Inpatient pulmonary rehab is what has helped most. He came home on 3L and is now on 2L. One problem is he has been on steroids for almost a year to control the lung inflammation. We are looking for a clinical trial now. He is basically home bound because of his shortness of breath with ant activity.

I am so sorry for what happened to your husband. I have been through similar situation but much less serious. Two years after Covid I developed pneumonia and then low oxygen levels. After being hospitalized twice I came home with oxygen. My oxygen has dipped to low 70’s -80’s. I have not used it for months now but oxygen level is often around 90 - 92. I am fatigued consistently and have post Covid symptoms. I was never told the low oxygen levels were from Covid but have always wondered? I will pray for your husband and wish you both good luck.

Hi Poppy, Ty for you reply. Did you have a HRCT scan of your lungs? I wonder if you have some fibrosis (scarring) in your lungs.

We purchased an Inogen G5 with the extra charger/battery for my husband. He is ecstatic about being able to go out with just a canula and the 8 lb machine (you can buy a cart; we didn't). Since it is rechargeable in the car, we took a driving trip and also went on a cruise. The G5 lasts a bit more than 4.5 hours on a charge for him. It is also less harsh than the tanks are. He is more tolerant of the hose at home, but going out is so much easier.

Has your doctor referred you to get a PFT test? My husband's doctor prescribed oxygen as it is important to brain function to be higher in the 90s.

Don’t think I had that particular scan. I’ve had so many it’s hard to remember. I’ll check into it. Thank you!