Long Covid/ POTS

What is Long COVID?

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Long COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection (PASC), refers to lingering symptoms that persist weeks or months after recovering from COVID-19. Symptoms can vary widely but often include:

• Extreme fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest

• Brain fog (difficulty concentrating, memory issues)

• Shortness of breath and chest pain

• Joint and muscle pain

• Heart palpitations and dizziness

• Sleep disturbances and mood changes (anxiety, depression)

• Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite)

Someone may suspect Long COVID if they continue to experience these symptoms for more than four weeks after their initial infection, even if their original COVID-19 case was mild.

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What is POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)?

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POTS is a condition that affects the autonomic nervous system, causing an abnormal increase in heart rate when moving from sitting or lying down to standing. It is sometimes triggered by viral infections, including COVID-19, making it a potential complication of Long COVID.

Symptoms of POTS include:

• Dizziness or fainting upon standing

• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) when changing positions

• Fatigue and exercise intolerance

• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating

• Temperature regulation issues (feeling too hot or too cold)

• Nausea and digestive problems

• Shakiness or lightheadedness

Someone may suspect POTS if they experience persistent dizziness, rapid heart rate, and fatigue that worsens when standing and improves when lying down. A doctor may diagnose POTS using a tilt table test or heart rate monitoring.

If someone is struggling with Long COVID or POTS, it is essential to seek medical advice, as proper management—such as hydration, physical therapy, and autonomic nervous system support—can significantly improve symptoms.