“In Spain, persistent COVID could affect one in 10 patients, especially women, and there are more than 200 symptoms described,” suggest the data published by Consumer Eroski
Professionals are already beginning to detect and record a significant number of patients who have overcome COVID-19, but who still have symptoms weeks after having contracted the disease.
In many cases they last for months and this is called Persistent COVID or Long COVID.
What are the symptoms of long COVID?
Currently more than 200 different ones have been described, some of which can be seen in the following table:
Source: Scientific-technical information. Coronavirus disease, COVID-19. Health Alerts and Emergencies Coordination Center, Ministry of Health. Update date: 15-01-2021
These, according to the affected patients, appear and disappear giving a false sensation of recovery or simply persist. Therefore, it must be differentiated from the term sequel.
According to a study published by seven clinical researchers in the United States, including two researchers of Spanish origin, the 5 most frequent symptoms are fatigue (58%), headache (44%), attention problems (27%), hair loss (25%), and dyspnea (24%).
“Of more than 47.000 people tested who have had COVID-19, 80% still have abnormal laboratory parameters or symptoms”
Source: López León, Sandra & Wegman-Ostrosky, Talia & Perelman, Carol & Sepulveda, Rosalinda & Rebolledo, Paulina & Cuapio, Angelica & Villapol, Sonia. (2021).
Why does long COVID occur?
So far, three possible theories about the disease have been put forward:
- Because our body triggers an excessive and uncontrolled response to the virus.
- Because the virus remains active in reservoirs of the body such as the small intestine.
- Because of autoimmunity that we generate.
In Spain, those affected by persistent COVID have come together to share experiences and ask for solutions. The Lovexair Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to respiratory health, has the support of insp@ir community , a digital environment for patients to share experiences, consult information on lung health from reliable sources or speak with healthcare professionals, safely.
Likewise, to facilitate and assist in the treatment and care of these patients in medical consultations, the Society of General and Family Physicians (SEMG) has created the “Basic care kit for patients with persistent COVID-19 disease” (Download pdf)
“It is about helping and supporting these patients in this process that was unknown until now, to eliminate that feeling of orphanhood and loneliness that they may feel, and to demonstrate the understanding and support of the healthcare community in the face of the doubts that arise in patients,” explains Dr. Lorenzo Armenteros, spokesperson for the SEMG and one of the authors of the Kit.
If you have questions or want to know more about this topic, contact a professional. HappyAir online so that I can provide you with information and guide you in taking care of your health. Tell us in info@lovexair.com
Author:Teresa García Barredo, Respiratory Physiotherapist at the Lovexair Foundation and HappyAir Coach
Reviewers:
Eva Maroto López, Respiratory Physiotherapist of the Lovexair Foundation and Coach HappyAir
Lila Martínez Ucha, Communication Department of the Lovexair Foundation
References:
original article from Eroski Consumer
Last updated on 7 March, 2026
