Unusual Symptoms Following COVID? Seeking Advice
Experiencing neurological issues after a COVID infection? Since contracting COVID three weeks ago, I’ve been facing unusual symptoms. This marked my fourth bout with the virus. Initially, my respiratory problems improved after five days, but about a week later, I started experiencing debilitating fatigue and lingering symptoms. Although I cautiously returned to work, it may have been too early, as I've since faced shortness of breath and an accelerated heartbeat. Fast forward to now, and I find my legs feeling incredibly weak, making walking a challenge. Additionally, I contend with heaviness in my arms and wake up feeling utterly exhausted, as though I haven't rested at all. Simple tasks like showering, brushing my teeth, and eating have become strenuous chores. For the past four weeks, I have been unable to work. Each time I attempt to step outside or go to a scheduled appointment, I end up feeling overwhelmingly fatigued and confined to my bed. The exhaustion feels as if my body were encased in cement, immobilizing me. I visited my general practitioner today. She conducted several blood tests and screened for other potential viral infections, but she seems uncertain about the next steps. According to her, if I am experiencing long COVID, there is no definitive test for it, and she appears somewhat doubtful. I mentioned the possibility of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), as I often feel extremely faint when standing or sitting, accompanied by a racing heart. Although my doctor detected low blood pressure and tachycardia during the examination, my prior diagnosis of anorexia complicates matters, preventing her from confirming POTS. I am currently undergoing treatment with an eating disorder specialist and making progress, but I’ve never experienced these POTS-like symptoms before; I truly believe they are unrelated to my eating disorder. Unfortunately, the severity of my fatigue limits my ability to consume more than a few bites at a time before nausea or faintness sets in, leading my doctor to dismiss the fatigue as significant. Are there additional tests I should consider? Is what I'm experiencing typical for post-COVID circumstances? If this is long COVID or chronic fatigue, I feel at a loss since it has only been three weeks since my COVID infection. About me: I’m a 30-year-old female, standing 161 cm tall and weighing 45 kg (a drop from 47.5 kg prior to my COVID illness). I do not smoke and have a medical history that includes neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome, temporomandibular disorder, and hypermobility, which may indicate an undiagnosed connective tissue disorder.
Answers (1)
6/25/2025, 10:20:40 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re navigating some very challenging and distressing symptoms following your recent COVID infection. You’ve described a range of neurological and physical issues, which can understandably be overwhelming. Let’s break this down regarding what you might be experiencing and what steps you can take next.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and signs suggesting postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), may be indicative of long COVID or post-viral fatigue syndrome.
- While no definitive test exists for long COVID, there are reasonable next steps to help you manage and understand your symptoms better.
Explanation:
Post-COVID conditions can vary widely among individuals. Many people report neurological symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive difficulties (“brain fog”), and physical exhaustion. The fact that you're feeling weak and have an accelerated heartbeat, especially when standing, could suggest POTS, a condition where blood doesn't circulate properly when you move from sitting to standing, causing dizziness and fatigue.
The interplay between your ongoing recovery from an eating disorder and these new symptoms complicates your situation. It’s vital to address both your physical and psychological health comprehensively.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Keep a journal tracking your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any triggers (like changing position or exertion). This may help identify patterns or specific issues to discuss further with your healthcare provider.
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Hydration and Salt Intake: If POTS is suspected, increasing fluid and salt intake can help manage low blood pressure. Discuss this approach with your doctor or nutritionist, considering your ongoing treatment for anorexia.
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Rest and Gradual Activity: Prioritize rest but try gentle movements to prevent deconditioning. Avoid intensive exertion until your symptoms are better managed. Start with small activities, like standing for a few minutes, and gradually increase as tolerated.
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Follow-Up with Specialists: Consider consulting a cardiologist for the tachycardia and low blood pressure symptoms. A referral to a specialist in post-COVID care could also help in forming a long-term management plan.
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Mental Health Support: Given your history and the impact of these symptoms on your daily life, continue engaging with mental health professionals who understand long COVID and its potential interactions with eating disorders.
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Discuss Additional Testing: If your symptoms persist, bring up the possibility of additional tests that can rule out other conditions often associated with fatigue or cardiovascular symptoms, like thyroid function tests or further autonomic testing.
Your ongoing progress with your eating disorder treatment is crucial, and balancing both aspects—your physical health post-COVID and your psychological well-being—will take time and support. Please know that seeking help for your physical symptoms does not negate your current treatment and could lead to better overall health. Take it step-by-step, and be gentle with yourself during this recovery journey.
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