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What damage can COVID do to your body?

Published in COVID-19 Health 2 mins read

COVID-19 can cause a wide range of damage to your body, both in the short-term and potentially in the long-term.

Short-Term Effects of COVID-19

During the acute phase of the infection, COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system, but it can also impact other organ systems. Common short-term effects include:

  • Respiratory System:

    • Pneumonia (lung infection)
    • Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
    • Shortness of breath
    • Cough

  • Cardiovascular System:

    • Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
    • Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
    • Blood clots

  • Neurological System:

    • Loss of taste and smell
    • Headaches
    • Confusion
    • Stroke

  • Other Systems:

    • Kidney damage
    • Gastrointestinal problems (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
    • Fatigue
    • Muscle aches

Long-Term Effects of COVID-19 (Long COVID)

Even after the initial infection clears, some individuals experience persistent symptoms and health problems, a condition known as long COVID (or Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, PASC). The range of long-term effects is still being studied, but can include:

  • General Symptoms:

    • Fatigue
    • Brain fog (difficulty concentrating and remembering)
    • Headache
    • Sleep disturbances

  • Respiratory Issues:

    • Shortness of breath
    • Persistent cough
    • Lung damage

  • Cardiovascular Problems:

    • Heart palpitations
    • Chest pain
    • Increased risk of heart disease
    • Myocarditis (as noted in the reference, can persist or develop after the initial infection)

  • Neurological Complications:

    • Loss of taste and smell
    • Memory problems
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Anxiety and depression
    • Migraine (as noted in the reference)

  • Other Potential Long-Term Issues (as mentioned in reference):

    • Autoimmune disease
    • Chronic kidney disease
    • Mood disorders

It's important to note that the severity and duration of COVID-19's effects can vary greatly from person to person. Vaccination helps reduce the risk of severe illness and long COVID. Consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment if you experience any concerning symptoms after a COVID-19 infection.

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