Long COVID | Predications for Risk

Millions of people globally are impacted by long COVID¹, a complex, multi-system condition.² Characterised by either new or ongoing symptoms which last beyond 12 weeks of initially contracting COVID-19², long COVID can significantly impact quality of life and increase the risk of developing various chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and chronic fatigue syndrome.³

Long COVID is associated with a wide range of physical and neuropsychological symptoms, such as intense fatigue, headaches, cognitive issues, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, muscle pain and sleep disturbance.⁴ Given the breadth of symptoms that can impact numerous organs³, it is likely that the underlying causes of long COVID may be just as diverse⁵ and potentially overlapping.³ This further complicates an already challenging picture, with long COVID likely presenting several different pathogenic mechanisms that each require a specific treatment approach.⁵

Recent reviews have considered predictions for long COVID, based on recent research.⁶ Of particular interest is the research into viral persistence, serotonin levels and chronic inflammation as potential insights into this complex condition.