Fatigue

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Symptoms of fatigue and exhaustion can become severe and cause people to spend all day in bed. If you get to this point, speak to a health care professional experienced in Post-COVID (also known as Long COVID) to rule out any other condition that could be causing your symptoms and to discuss management strategies.

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE

You are likely to find that your energy levels fluctuate from day to day. You may sleep more, feel unsteady on your feet, or find standing for long periods difficult. Additionally, fatigue may affect your memory and your ability to concentrate. Walking around your home might be difficult, including walking the stairs, using the bathroom, and managing your daily routine. You may need to adapt your activities to conserve your energy.

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POSSIBLE CAUSES

Fatigue is a normal part of the body’s response to fighting a viral infection such as COVID-19. Fatigue is very common after a viral illness and typically resolves after two or three weeks.

Some people’s fatigue may last for weeks or months due to the body’s continued response to the COVID-19 virus even though the acute phase is over. Additionally, people who experience any severe illness are expected to have fatigue for up to six months after.

SYMPTOMS

Frequent headaches and/or migraines.

Tiredness that may improve but doesn’t resolve with rest

Chronic sleepiness

Drowsiness

Easily exhausted

Difficulty concentrating

MANAGEMENT

Various strategies you can use at home to help manage fatigue include:

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Living on a single level of your home to avoid stairs while you recover.

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Practicing relaxation techniques and therapies.

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Using special equipment to help you with common tasks.

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Getting adequate sleep.

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Pacing and creating a plan to save energy while performing activities.

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Maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated.

Take Charge of Your Recovery

Learn self-management techniques with other long haulers in the Post-COVID Support Community. Joint now on our Forever Free plan to start your recovery journey today.