COVID recovery specialist tests overview

Overview

COVID recovery specialist tests are a group of checks and assessments used to understand why some people continue to have symptoms long after their COVID-19 infection has cleared. These tests help doctors find out what is going on in your body, such as how well your lungs, heart, and other organs are working, so they can create a plan to help you feel better.

Yes, long COVID is common. Studies suggest that around 1 in 5 people who have COVID-19 develop symptoms that last for several weeks or longer. It can happen after mild or severe illness.

Anyone who has had COVID-19 can develop long-term symptoms, but it seems more common in people who had a severe infection, older adults, and those with existing health conditions. However, younger people and those without prior health issues can also be affected.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Extreme tiredness (fatigue) that doesn't go away with rest
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Brain fog – trouble concentrating, remembering, or thinking clearly
• Chest pain or tightness
• Heart palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or skipping beats)
• Joint or muscle pain
• Loss of taste or smell that doesn't come back
• Cough that won't go away
• Difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety or depression

Symptoms in children

• Fatigue and low energy
• Trouble concentrating in school
• Mood changes like irritability or sadness
• Headaches
• Stomach aches
• Sleep problems

Symptoms in older adults

• More severe tiredness and weakness
• Worsening of existing health conditions (like heart disease or diabetes)
• Difficulty with daily activities such as bathing or cooking
• Confusion or memory problems
• Loss of appetite and weight loss

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of long COVID is not fully known. It may involve the immune system staying active after the virus is gone, leading to inflammation that affects different parts of the body.
• In some cases, the virus may cause small damage to organs like the lungs, heart, or brain that takes time to heal.
• Another theory is that the virus triggers changes in how the body uses energy or sends signals through the nervous system.

Risk factors

• Having a severe case of COVID-19, especially if you needed hospital care
• Being older, particularly over 65
• Having pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or lung disease
• Being overweight (higher body mass index)
• Not being vaccinated against COVID-19 (vaccination lowers the risk of long COVID)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have any of the emergency symptoms listed above, call your local emergency number right away.
• If your symptoms are getting worse or you are struggling to manage everyday tasks, contact your GP or local health service within the day.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you had COVID-19 and are still not feeling well after 4 weeks, make an appointment to talk to a doctor or nurse about your recovery.
• Anytime you have new or lasting symptoms that worry you, even if it has been months since your infection.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your life. They will listen to your chest, check your blood pressure and heart rate, and may refer you to a specialist for more detailed tests. Diagnosis is based on a combination of your history and test results, not one single test.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check for inflammation, anaemia, and how well your organs are working
• An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) – a quick, painless test that records your heart's electrical activity
• A chest X-ray to look at your lungs
• Pulse oximetry – a small clip on your finger that measures oxygen levels in your blood
• Lung function tests – where you blow into a machine to see how well your lungs work
• Exercise tolerance test – to see how your body responds to physical activity
• A six-minute walk test – walking for six minutes while your oxygen and heart rate are monitored
• Blood pressure and heart rate measurements while lying, sitting, and standing (to check for Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome – POTS)
• Sometimes an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) if heart problems are suspected

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will explain each test before it is done. Most tests are painless and done in an office or clinic. You may need to visit a hospital for some tests like a chest X-ray or lung function test. The appointments can take a few hours, but you will be guided through each step. Results are usually available within a few days or weeks, and your doctor will discuss them with you.

Treatment

Treatment for long COVID focuses on helping you manage your symptoms and gradually improve your health. There is no single cure, but many people get better with a combination of self-care, rehabilitation, and sometimes medications or therapies for specific problems. Your doctor will tailor a plan for you.

Self-care at home

• Pace yourself – break tasks into small steps and rest between activities
• Keep a symptom diary to notice what makes you feel better or worse
• Get enough sleep and try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein
• Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day
• Avoid pushing yourself too hard – listen to your body and rest when you need to
• Try gentle activities like walking, stretching, or yoga, and slowly increase as you feel able

Medical treatments

Doctors may recommend treatments based on your specific symptoms. For example, if you have breathlessness, you might be referred to a pulmonary rehabilitation programme with breathing exercises. If you have heart palpitations, a cardiologist may suggest ways to manage them. For pain or fatigue, your doctor might talk about pain management techniques or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help you cope. Certain medications may be used for conditions like heart rate issues or inflammation, but these are always prescribed individually and not as a general treatment for long COVID.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for long COVID. In very rare cases where organ damage requires repair, such as severe lung scarring or heart valve problems, surgery might be considered. Your specialist will discuss any such options with you if necessary.

Living with this condition

Living with long COVID can feel like a rollercoaster – some days you feel better, other days worse. It helps to plan your days around your energy levels. Break tasks into small chunks, rest often, and don't be hard on yourself on tough days. Let family, friends, and employers know what you are going through so they can support you.

Lifestyle tips

• Set a regular sleep schedule and avoid screens before bed
• Manage stress with deep breathing, meditation, or talking to someone you trust
• Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they can make symptoms worse
• Stay connected with loved ones, even if it is just a phone call
• Join a support group – online or in-person – to share experiences with others who understand

Diet and exercise

Eat a healthy, balanced diet that gives you energy and supports your immune system. Avoid crash diets or extreme changes. For exercise, start very gently – a short walk or some gentle stretching. Listen to your body and stop if you feel worse. Over time, you can slowly increase activity under the guidance of a physiotherapist or rehabilitation team.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Long COVID can affect your mental health too. You might feel frustrated, sad, or anxious about your recovery. These feelings are normal and it is important to talk about them. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to a mental health professional or a crisis helpline. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.

Prevention

It is not possible to fully prevent long COVID because we do not yet know exactly why some people get it. However, the best way to lower your risk is to avoid getting COVID-19 in the first place. Vaccination and booster shots significantly reduce the chance of severe illness and may also lower the risk of long-lasting symptoms.

Vaccines

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. They reduce your risk of getting severely ill and may help protect against long COVID. Talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated and staying up to date with recommended boosters.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for long COVID. If you have had COVID-19 and develop ongoing symptoms, see your doctor for an assessment. They will decide which tests, if any, are right for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• Persistent symptoms may get worse over time if not addressed
• You might have trouble returning to work, school, or daily activities
• Long-term fatigue and breathlessness can lead to muscle wasting and deconditioning
• Depression or anxiety may develop if symptoms continue without support

Long-term outlook

Most people with long COVID do get better – it just takes time, often many months. The right care and support can help you manage symptoms and regain your strength. While recovery can be slow, many people see significant improvements. Stay in touch with your healthcare team and don't lose hope. You are not alone, and help is available.

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