What to know
- Long COVID is a serious illness that can result in chronic conditions requiring comprehensive care and may cause disability.
- Long COVID symptoms may resolve months after illness for some people, while others may experience symptoms for years.
- Anyone who gets COVID-19 can experience Long COVID, including children.
- Talk to your healthcare provider if you think you have, or your child has, Long COVID.
Talking to your doctor
Long COVID is a complex chronic illness with symptoms that can be difficult to understand, talk about, or explain. People with these hard-to-explain symptoms may:
- Be misunderstood
- Not be taken seriously or believed
- Experience stigma from others, sometimes even from their healthcare providers
- Need to undergo several tests to determine appropriate treatment
These can cause a delay in your diagnosis and receiving the appropriate care or treatment. It is important to understand any Long COVID symptoms or conditions and to seek care to improve your quality of life. Talk to your healthcare provider if you think you or your child has Long COVID.
What to expect for your healthcare appointment
Healthcare providers are still learning about Long COVID. It may take more than one appointment to evaluate potential Long COVID symptoms and determine a helpful diagnosis. Your provider may:
- Ask questions about your medical history
- Ask about your current symptoms and quality of life
- Run tests
- Order additional tests or schedule appointments with specialists
Treatment for Long COVID is specific to management of your symptoms and may be different from others with Long COVID symptoms. Clinical trials are underway to learn more about how Long COVID affects different people and possible treatments. Preparing for an appointment can make a difference in your Long COVID evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. Consider different questions about your Long COVID symptoms or conditions, and review these tips [PDF – 1 Page] to help prepare for your healthcare provider appointment.