A symptom that most people associate with a common cold could actually indicate long Covid. Typically, individuals recover from a coronavirus infection within a few weeks after symptoms begin. However, NHS guidance points out that some people can develop a more persistent illness, with symptoms lasting far longer. Long Covid, also called post-COVID syndrome, is usually diagnosed when COVID-19 symptoms persist for more than 12 weeks. Keep reading to learn which common symptom might actually be a sign of long Covid.One Nose Symptom That Can Also Be Long CovidLong Covid symptoms can vary widely, and many may be mistaken for a regular cold or flu. For instance, a sore throat or a runny nose could suggest either a common cold or long Covid, depending on how long the symptom has been present.What Are Common Symptoms Of Long CovidOther symptoms may include:Memory or concentration difficulties, often referred to as brain fogShortness of breathJoint aches and muscle painExtreme fatigueHair loss or skin rashes such as hivesNasal congestion or a runny noseHeadaches, dizziness, or vertigoPins and needles or widespread body achesPersistent coughAbdominal pain or diarrhoeaNausea, vomiting, weight loss, and reduced appetiteTrouble sleeping (insomnia)Elevated temperatureChanges in senses, including vision issues, earaches, tinnitus, or altered taste and smellAnxiety and depressionSore throatSudden confusion (delirium), especially in older adultsChest pain or tightness, and noticeable heart palpitationsHow To Know If You Have Long Covid Or Common Cold?Telling the difference between a common cold and COVID-19 can be tricky, as many symptoms overlap. You can look for clues such as when the symptoms started, the intensity of fatigue, and whether you have experienced loss of taste or smell, a hallmark of earlier COVID variants. The only way to be sure is to take a COVID-19 test. Long Covid stands apart from both a cold and acute COVID-19 because its symptoms, like fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive difficulties, persist for weeks or months after the initial infection.Long Covid ComplicationsSome people, particularly those who had severe COVID-19, may experience effects on multiple organs or develop autoimmune conditions lasting weeks, months, or even years. These multi-organ effects can involve the heart, lungs, kidneys, skin, and brain. Many of these complications share symptoms with commonly reported long Covid issues. Consequently, people who have had COVID-19 may be at higher risk of developing or worsening conditions such as:DiabetesHeart problemsBlood clotsNeurological disordersIf you suspect you have long Covid, your GP may run several tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms, including blood tests. They might also monitor your heart rate and oxygen levels.In some cases, further investigations such as an ECG or X-ray may be required. Some patients may be referred to a team of specialists at a post-COVID syndrome clinic for comprehensive evaluation.
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