Health officials in Lancashire and South Cumbria are raising awareness of the symptoms of Long COVID during Self Care Week.

More than one million people across England are estimated to have Long COVID, which is also referred to as post-COVID-19 syndrome.

While Long COVID is a condition which is still being studied, there are common symptoms including extreme tiredness, shortness of breath and loss of smell.

Most people who have had COVID-19 are typically free of symptoms after four weeks, but those with long COVID may continue to experience symptoms for longer.

Speaking during Self Care Week, local GP and GP lead for long COVID services in Lancashire and South Cumbria, Dr Qashuf Hussain, has called on people to understand the signs of the condition and what they can do to help ease symptoms.

“It is important to firstly see your local GP to ensure that other diagnoses and problems are not missed,” Dr Hussain said.

“If the symptoms continue to persist you can be referred to a local Long COVID clinic to receive targeted medical support.

“As it is Self Care Week, I would recommend anyone who has had COVID-19 should visit www.yourcovidrecovery.nhs.uk which has detailed information on recovering from the virus.

“COVID-19 is still out there and people are still catching the virus. If you are vulnerable or clinically vulnerable but haven’t had the COVID-19 or flu vaccination, you should book an appointment to have them.”

Long COVID symptoms include extreme tiredness (fatigue); shortness of breath; chest pain or tightness; problems with memory and concentration; difficulty sleeping (insomnia); heart palpitations; dizziness; pins and needles; joint pain; depression and anxiety; tinnitus or earaches; feeling sick, diarrhoea, stomach aches, loss of appetite; a high temperature, cough, headaches, sore throat, changes to sense of smell or taste; rashes; and problems with swallowing.

If you are concerned about any of your symptoms, or are experiencing new or worsening symptoms, contact your GP surgery for an initial consultation and access to any further assessments will be arranged where required.

New symptoms can also develop that people did not have during their initial illness, and some may return after a period of feeling better.

Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has produced a website with lots of advice and support for residents with COVID-19 and Long COVID: https://covidpatientsupport.lthtr.nhs.uk/