Darrick Robles Fever, cough, loss of taste: we can now list the typical symptoms of a corona infection almost in our sleep. But what about secondary diseases like Long Covid? Some patients report being tired for months long after the infection has been overcome. This persistent exhaustion is not uncommon after viral infections. In medicine, it is called post-viral fatigue (PVF).
Postviral Fatigue: When the body still needs rest
An immune response is a lot of work for our body. That’s why we should take it easy when we’re sick. Often we still feel broken even after surviving a viral infection. This state of exhaustion (fatigue) usually lasts only a few days, but sometimes it can last for weeks or months: in this case, medicine speaks of postviral fatigue .
Sometimes the constant tiredness is accompanied by
- concentration and memory problems,
- sleep disorders ,
- a persistent feeling of infection,
- nausea and/or dizziness,
- diarrhea _
- recurrent fever ,
- tachycardia after little exertion,
- breathing difficulties
- muscle or headache .
The exact causes of long post-corona fatigue are still unclear. It is believed that the exhaustion is not only caused by the virus itself, but primarily by the stressed immune system. Post-viral fatigue also occurs, for example, after an influenza infection .
Who is at risk?
Most people recover fully after a corona infection. But we also know that the coronavirus can damage all organs in the body. Surveys show that Covid patients recover from the disease very differently. Patients with a severe course tend to take longer to feel fit again. This is not only due to the severity of the infection, but also to the consequences of the intensive care treatment, the ventilation and the long stay in the hospital. However, long covid also occurs in healthy people with a mild course of covid-19.
What do doctors advise?
Post-corona fatigue occurs in the convalescent phase – that is, in the final phase of the recovery process. This process cannot be accelerated by certain measures. However, those affected can do something to relieve their immune system and keep the exhaustion within limits:
- get enough sleep and rest breaks
- maintain a healthy day-night rhythm
- Avoid stress (do not plan too many activities in one day)
- avoid sports and physical overload
- use relaxation techniques
Can fatigue become chronic?
Doctors make a distinction between postviral fatigue (PVF) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). What both have in common: those affected feel extremely exhausted even after a small effort. So much so that they have to stay in bed for days after shopping in a supermarket, for example.
The research does not rule out that post-viral fatigue can become chronic after a previous Covid-19 infection. However, one only speaks of chronic fatigue if the symptoms have lasted longer than 6 months. One thing is certain: post-corona fatigue is a serious illness that can disrupt the lives of those affected.
The medical interest in Long Covid is great – numerous research teams are currently working on gaining new insights into it. In many German cities there are now post-Covid outpatient clinics that take care of patients with long-term effects of corona.
What to do when the exhaustion just won’t go away?
If you have tested positive for the coronavirus and are still exhausted weeks later, you should get a medical examination. Your doctor can help you to clarify the symptoms and rule out permanent damage to the organs. You can also have medication prescribed for recurring pain, fever, or nausea. Even with depressive moods that accompany fatigue, you are not alone. Medical help is there when you need it.
