According to the latest research, approximately one in ten people who contract COVID-19 will go on to suffer from Long haul COVID, or Long COVID. In this blog we examine how long you should expect Long haul COVID to last.

The majority of people who contract COVID-19 will experience mild symptoms and recover relatively quickly. However, a smaller group of people will experience a more protracted illness known as Long Haul COVID or Long COVID.

There have been increasing amounts of stories documented in the media about the individuals who experience a longer form of COVID 19. Some of these people have been suffering from Long COVID for up to eight months, while others have seen their symptoms pass after a few weeks. As it is a new illness that has only existed less than a year, there is a lot we still have to learn about the after effects of COVID-19. The good news is that there are stories of people who have made a complete recovery from Long Haul COVID. 

What is Long Haul COVID?

Because the condition hasn’t been around for long enough yet to be properly researched, scientists aren’t completely sure what Long COVID is yet. It can also manifest differently for different people. However, Long COVID is likely to be a combination of some of the following: 

• Post viral fatigue - it is very common after some viruses (including SARS and MERS, closely linked to COVID-19) for the body to take several months to recover, but in time, post viral fatigue should resolve itself. 
• Autoimmune condition - the body hasn’t calmed down after it launched a counter attack on the initial infection. There is currently research ongoing into the possibility of Long Haul COVID being virus-induced autoimmunity. 
• Chronic inflammation - the internal organs are inflamed after initial infection.
• Ongoing symptoms of initial infection.
• Organ damage as a result of the initial infection such as to the heart or lungs. 

How long the recovery process will take will be down to the reasons for the illness. For many people suffering from post viral fatigue and inflammation, the hope is that Long COVID will clear up with time.

What should I do if I’m suffering from Long Haul COVID? 

If you believe that you are suffering from Long Haul COVID, it is important not to panic. Remember that is not unusual for people to be unwell for weeks or even months after having suffered from a virulent virus. If you look after yourself and get as much rest as possible, the body should rebalance itself with time. 

• Get support from one of the many Long Haul COVID groups online. 
• Listen to your body. 
• Don’t push yourself. 
• Get plenty of sleep. 
• Eat a wholesome and nutritious diet. 
• Investigate supplements to support your recovery. 
• Speak with your GP to rule out any other complications or symptoms. 
• Ask if you can get a referral to a specialist Long COVID unit.
• Use non-irritating skincare & toiletries for any skin problems

Recommended products for people experiencing Long COVID:

Balmonds Skin Salvation
with hemp and beeswax

Balmonds Intensive Hand Cream
with shea butter and sea buckthorn oil