Support and treatment for Long Covid
What is Long Covid?
To learn more about the symptoms of Long Covid visit our advice article which contains everything you need to know about this new condition.
Should I speak to my doctor about my symptoms?
If you are concerned about any of your symptoms, you should contact your doctor. You can also speak to other healthcare professonials like community pharmacists. For urgent matters, please contact NHS 111.
If your doctor thinks you have Long Covid, they will look at your medical history and ask questions about your symptoms and the impact they are having on your day- to-day life.
They may also examine you and arrange for tests to be undertaken, such as blood tests, measuring your blood pressure, measuring your oxygen levels or a chest X-ray.
What support should I receive after I’ve seen my doctor?
After you have seen your doctor, they will talk to you about what they think is happening and discuss any support they think you need. They will also rule out any other conditions or illnesses that might be causing your symptoms.
Your doctor may give you advice about how to manage and monitor your symptoms at home.
If your symptoms are having a big impact on your life, you may be referred for:
- Support from primary care services, community services or mental health services.
- Specialist care.
If you need specialist care you may be referred to a Post COVID Service, where you’ll be looked after and supported by a range of health care professionals.
Do I need to attend a Post COVID Service?
Post COVID Services were launched in December 2020, bringing together a wide range of healthcare professionals including doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.
The clinics offer physical, psychological and rehabilitation needs assessments, with the aim to bring a more holistic diagnostic approach and referral for long COVID treatment, management and support.
Referrals to the specialist services are made based on someone’s ongoing symptoms and the impact on their day-to-day life. They are not based on the severity of the initial illness, or a positive COVID-19 test.
Locally, the Post Covid Services are currently run at the following hospitals:
Your COVID Recovery
The NHS has also launched an online resource called ‘Your COVID Recovery’ which is available in two parts.
The first part of the platform is designed to offer advice and guidance to support your physical and emotional recovery if you have Long COVID symptoms. You will need to get a referral from your doctor to access this online resource .
The second part of the Your COVID Recovery resource can be accessed following referral from a Post COVID Service. Through this platform you can get advice and support from health care professionals on your mental health, physical activity, managing your symptoms and diet. You’ll also be able to track your symptoms and set goals.
Visit the Your COVID Recovery website
Other support available
The North West London Integrated Care System have put together resources on how to self-manage Post Covid symptoms. You can find the resources here.
You might also be able to get support for your symptoms from pharmacies and community groups.
