Five years after the World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a pandemic, researchers are uncovering how the virus can impact our health long after the initial infection. Initially, we quickly learned how dangerous Covid could be, particularly for individuals with health issues like diabetes and heart disease. However, understanding the lasting effects of the virus took much longer.
Many people experience symptoms like chronic fatigue and brain fog, which are part of what we now call long Covid. This term describes lingering effects that can continue for three months or more after recovery. Recent estimates suggest that around 400 million people globally may be living with some form of long Covid. But Covid doesn’t just lead to these known symptoms; it can also cause lasting damage to the lungs and heart and alter the gut microbiome, which might go unnoticed but still affects overall health.
Researchers are beginning to grasp what drives these persistent health issues. One major factor seems to be inflammation. Typically, this inflammation fades as the virus is cleared from the body. However, for some individuals, it can turn into a long-term problem. Dr. Braden Kuo, a neurogastroenterologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, explains that if inflammation becomes too intense or hangs around for a while, it can disrupt various body systems.
The impact of Covid on our lungs is especially concerning. Studies show that a significant percentage of those who recover from Covid experience respiratory issues, which can manifest as shortness of breath or reduced lung function. A recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that nearly one-third of hospitalized patients showed long-term lung problems even six months post-infection.
In addition to respiratory issues, the heart is another critical concern. Research indicates that Covid can lead to myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart, which might not be immediately diagnosed. A report from the Journal of the American College of Cardiology states that Covid-19 survivors have an increased risk of heart inflammation, which can impact physical activity and overall quality of life.
Moreover, the gut microbiome changes due to Covid can lead to digestive problems. Some studies suggest that Covid can alter the balance of gut bacteria, resulting in issues like bloating, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. This disruption may contribute to long-lasting symptoms that many face.
The broader societal impact of long Covid is significant. It is estimated that millions of people are sidelined from their daily activities, affecting workforce productivity and straining healthcare systems. The CDC emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing long Covid, as researchers work to better understand the virus’s long-term effects.
Ongoing research aims to shed light on these issues, helping healthcare professionals provide better support and care for those affected. While our knowledge continues to grow, the pandemic’s effects—both seen and unseen—will linger in our lives for the foreseeable future.
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