Long COVID symptoms

Persistent fatigue, brain fog, and exercise intolerance after COVID can last months. A provider can rule out treatable causes and coordinate care online.

Also called: chronic fatigue after COVID · post-COVID brain fog · long haul COVID

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed

Seek urgent care or the ER if you have:

  • Symptoms that are sudden, severe, or rapidly worsening
  • High fever (over 103°F / 39.4°C) that doesn't respond to treatment
  • Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or confusion
  • Signs of dehydration — dizziness, dark urine, unable to keep fluids down
  • Symptoms in someone who is pregnant, immunocompromised, or over 65

What long covid symptoms could be

The most common causes a clinician considers. This isn't a diagnosis — it's the differential a provider works through with you.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is one of the more common causes of long covid symptoms. A provider can confirm with the right history, exam, or labs — and start treatment the same day when appropriate.

Depression

Depression is one of the more common causes of long covid symptoms. A provider can confirm with the right history, exam, or labs — and start treatment the same day when appropriate.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is one of the more common causes of long covid symptoms. A provider can confirm with the right history, exam, or labs — and start treatment the same day when appropriate.

Typical workup

What a clinician usually orders or asks about when someone presents with long covid symptoms.

  • CBC, comprehensive metabolic panel, TSH, ferritin, vitamin D, and B12
  • Orthostatic vitals (lying / standing) to screen for POTS-type patterns
  • Symptom-based specialist referrals (pulmonary, cardiology, neurology, mental health)

When to see a clinician

  • Symptoms have lasted more than a few days without improving, or keep coming back
  • You're not sure if this needs antibiotics, prescription treatment, or watchful waiting
  • You have a chronic condition (diabetes, heart disease, immunocompromised) that raises the stakes
  • You want a same-day plan without a trip to urgent care

Common questions