Fatigue
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.
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: