Long Covid sufferers urged to seek information
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People who are suffering from ongoing Covid symptoms are being told to seek guidance from NHS 24.
Information on the website NHSinform.scot includes details about the most common symptoms, how a patient is assessed and how to manage ongoing symptoms.
NHS 24’s medical director Dr Laura Ryan says that most people recover from coronavirus within four weeks, but for some people symptoms can last longer, or new ones can develop.
Symptoms can also change over time and can affect anywhere in the body. Long Covid can also include breathlessness, a cough, aches and pains, insomnia and low mood or anxiety.
Dr Ryan said: “Coronavirus can vary from person to person, and sometimes recovery can take longer than we would like. The important thing is not to compare with others and to take the time to look after ourselves.
"The information on NHS inform can really help with managing ongoing symptoms until they do naturally fade away. Of course, you should contact your GP practice if you’re worried about the severity or persistence of your symptoms or they’re getting worse.”
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “It is important that people with long Covid symptoms get the right advice and having all the information in one place will hopefully make it easier for them.
"The information and support available at NHS inform has been designed to help people with their recovery. The Long Covid Support Fund was established with £10 million last month and was designed to maximise and improve the co-ordination of a broad range of existing services across the health and social care system and third sector in response to the condition.”
For useful information and guidance from NHS 24, see www.nhsinform.scot/longer-term-effects-of-covid-19-long-covid
