Long-Term Effects of COVID-19: The Stories of 2 Physicians Who Became Patients.

Abstract

Approximately 10% of patients who survive COVID-19 will proceed to have lasting, often debilitating effects, known as "long COVID." These symptoms can take various forms, most commonly including postexertional malaise, fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, gastrointestinal symptoms, heart palpitations, diminished sexual desire or capacity, loss of smell or taste, thirst, chronic cough, chest pain, and abnormal movements. Here, 2 physician-patients present their own experiences with long COVID and share their perspectives on the experience. One key insight is that patients who are not familiar with long COVID may not attribute ongoing symptoms to their illness. Diagnosis requires an astute, compassionate physician who understands long COVID and can appropriately situate the symptoms within the evolving understanding of the condition, leading the patient toward recovery.