Our Long Covid Service provides NHS support for adults who still have symptoms related to a Covid infection 12 weeks, or four weeks if severe, after their infection.
A local resident, who has been living with the effects of Long Covid, is sharing his experience as our health professionals encourage those struggling with ongoing symptoms to reach out for support.
Colston Day, 62, from Weston-Super-Mare, contracted Covid two years ago and has been dealing with continuing symptoms ever since.
“At first, I thought I’d recover within a few weeks, but months later, I was still struggling with exhaustion and shortness of breath,” said Mr Day.
“It affected my ability to carry out simple, everyday tasks, and I felt like I was losing my identity. I went from being fit and healthy, and doing long walks with the dog every day, to being exhausted after a short walk around the block. I also had severe brain fog and memory loss, which made simple tasks like going to the shops very difficult.
“I didn’t know where to turn, but after getting support, I now feel like I’m finally making progress. Working with the Long Covid Service has also helped me to make adjustments for my condition and get my life back on track.”
Our Long Covid Service provides specialist assessment and support tailored to people’s individual needs. This may include improving how the person manages activities, work and leisure, psychological support, breathing management, assessment for other conditions and rehabilitation. GPs can refer people to these services, ensuring they receive the right care at the right time.
Anne Rowbottom, Clinical Lead in Sirona’s Long Covid Service, stresses the importance of seeking medical advice:
“If you are still having symptoms such as increased fatigue, breathlessness, and brain fog several weeks after an infection, ask yourself, ‘Could I have Long Covid?’ and contact your GP.
“Long Covid can be overwhelming and frustrating, but help is available. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms lasting longer than four weeks, please reach out to your GP. Our services are designed to support recovery and improve quality of life.
“We estimate that almost 2 million people across the UK are experiencing Long Covid symptoms. However, fewer people are accessing the support they need because they are not aware that Long Covid may be the cause. Covid testing is also less common and they often don’t know if a bug or viral infection is Covid. This should not be a barrier to getting the right treatment, and we urge anyone experiencing ongoing symptoms to seek help.”
People can access Sirona’s Long Covid service through GP referral. If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms, contact your GP to discuss the next steps.
You can find out more information on our Long Covid Service from our website.
