Are you still suffering from persistent COVID symptoms? Check into an AFC clinic – our compassionate providers can help you find relief.
Recovering from COVID-19 doesn’t always follow a straight line. While many people feel better within a few weeks, others continue to experience symptoms long after the initial infection has passed. Maybe you were visiting Little Debbie Park and after only a few minutes felt out of breath, or stopped for fresh donuts at Panthers Dough Joe, but couldn’t enjoy them because your taste hasn’t come back.
Lingering symptoms after COVID (such as fatigue, brain fog or shortness of breath) are commonly referred to as long COVID, long-haul COVID or post-COVID syndrome. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they all describe the same condition: ongoing or recurring health issues linked to a previous COVID infection. At AFC Urgent Care, our goal is to help patients understand these symptoms, take them seriously and determine the right next steps for care.
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What Is Long COVID?
In the U.S., long COVID is often described as a chronic condition triggered by the virus that causes COVID-19. It may include symptoms that started during the initial illness and never fully resolved, or new symptoms and conditions that develop later.
Long COVID is generally associated with symptoms that last three months or longer after the first COVID symptoms appear. It can affect people who had mild cases just as much as those who were severely ill or hospitalized.
Signs of Post-COVID Syndrome
One of the most challenging aspects of post-COVID syndrome is its unpredictability. Symptoms or conditions may last weeks, months or even years. They can emerge, persist, improve, resolve and reappear over time – and affect people differently.
Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue that interferes with daily life.
- Memory or concentration issues (“brain fog”).
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded.
- Changes in taste or smell.
Other symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath or lingering cough
- Sleep problems
- Headaches
- Depression or anxiety
- Digestive issues
- Joint or muscle pain
- Changes in menstrual cycle
In some cases, post-COVID syndrome contributes to other health conditions or worsens existing ones. Patients may be diagnosed with conditions such as migraines, autoimmune diseases, heart disease, lung disease, mood disorders, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), or Myalgic Encephalomyelitis–Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME-CFS). For some individuals, post-COVID syndrome may even result in temporary or long-term disability.
Why Do COVID Symptoms Linger?
There is still no single explanation for why some people develop long-haul COVID. What experts do know is that COVID can trigger infection-associated chronic conditions in certain individuals.
According to the Mayo Clinic, leading theories include:
- Disrupted immune system communication that causes autoimmune reactions.
- Reactivation of viruses already present in the body.
- Changes to the gut’s natural balance.
- Damage to the brain stem or the vagus nerve, which controls many automatic bodily functions.
Research is ongoing, and treatment recommendations continue to evolve as more is learned.
When Should You Seek Care?
You should consider medical evaluation if:
- Your symptoms are consistently interfering with daily life.
- Symptoms last three months or longer after a COVID infection.
- New or worsening symptoms appear after you initially felt recovered.
Because long COVID can look different for everyone (and lacks a single diagnostic test), patients sometimes experience delayed treatment or feel dismissed. Early evaluation and open communication can make a meaningful difference.
How AFC Can Help Treat Lingering COVID Symptoms
At this time, there is no single test that can confirm long-haul COVID. That’s why care begins with listening. At AFC Urgent Care clinics throughout Tennessee, providers take time to review your symptoms, medical history and how your health has changed since having COVID.
AFC can perform a wide range of in-house diagnostic tests, including:
- Blood tests
- Chest X-rays
- Electrocardiograms (EKGs)
These tests help providers better understand what may be contributing to your symptoms and guide the next steps in care. Depending on your results, this may include treatment recommendations, symptom management strategies or referrals to specialists for further evaluation.
Living With Long-haul COVID
Long COVID is complex, and treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Because symptoms and causes vary so widely, managing lingering COVID symptoms often requires patience and individualized care. Research continues to improve how long COVID is diagnosed and treated, but progress can take time.
If you’re struggling with lingering COVID symptoms, AFC is here to help you take the next step. Our providers are committed to listening, evaluating your symptoms and helping you move forward with clarity and support – when you need it most. We’re open daily and accept most insurance plans.
