Long COVID: When Symptoms Linger

Long COVID in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Most people recover from COVID-19 within a few weeks. But some develop new, returning, or ongoing symptoms that last weeks, months, or longer after the infection — a condition called Long COVID (also “post-COVID conditions”). It can happen to anyone who has had COVID-19, including children and people who had only mild illness. If you’re a Grand Rapids resident still struggling weeks after an infection, you’re not imagining it — and help is available.

Common symptoms

Long COVID can affect many parts of the body, and symptoms vary from person to person. They may include:

• Fatigue that interferes with daily life
• Symptoms that get worse after physical or mental effort (post-exertional malaise)
• “Brain fog” — trouble thinking, concentrating, or remembering
• Shortness of breath or cough
• Chest pain or a fast/pounding heartbeat
• Headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness on standing
• Sleep problems
• Loss of smell or taste
• Joint or muscle pain
• Anxiety or depression
• Digestive issues

Symptoms can come and go, and they can range from mild to disabling.

How it’s managed

There’s no single test for Long COVID — providers diagnose it based on your history and symptoms after ruling out other causes. Management focuses on treating specific symptoms and improving function:

• Work with your primary care doctor to create a plan and rule out other conditions.
• Pace yourself — gentle, gradual activity that avoids crashing after exertion.
• Treat specific issues (sleep, mood, heart rate, breathing) individually.
• Some patients benefit from specialty or rehabilitation care through Grand Rapids health systems.
• Care for your mental health — Long COVID is real and can be frustrating; support helps. Network180 and the 988 line are here if you’re struggling.

Lower your risk

The best way to avoid Long COVID is to avoid getting COVID-19 — and to reduce the severity if you do:

• Stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines, which lower the risk of severe illness and may reduce the risk of Long COVID.
• Get tested if you have symptoms, and ask your doctor whether antiviral treatment is right for you — it can reduce the risk of severe illness, especially if you’re higher risk.
• Improve indoor air, wash hands, and stay home when sick.

If symptoms are interfering with work, school, or daily life, talk with your primary care doctor in Grand Rapids about an evaluation and a plan. You may also have workplace accommodation rights — ask your provider about documentation.