Title: Study Reveals Long-Term Symptoms in Respiratory Illnesses Similar to Long COVID
Subtitle: Researchers urge continued research to address long-lasting effects of infections
A new study conducted by Queen Mary University of London suggests that individuals who have experienced common colds, flu, pneumonia, or other respiratory illnesses may face long-term symptoms, akin to those observed in long COVID cases. The findings, published in The Lancet’s EClinicalMedicine journal, reveal that even individuals who tested negative for COVID-19 following an acute respiratory infection can continue to experience symptoms for at least four weeks after the initial infection.
The study analyzed data from 10,171 adults in the UK through questionnaires, focusing on the presence of 16 symptoms commonly associated with long COVID. It was found that individuals with persistent symptoms reported coughing, stomach pain, diarrhea, issues with taste or smell, and lightheadedness or dizziness as the most prevalent complaints.
The authors of the study highlighted that long-lasting symptoms are not a recent phenomenon, but rather often go undetected due to the wide range of symptoms and lack of testing. Professor Adrian Martineau, the chief investigator of COVIDENCE UK, stressed the significance of ongoing research into the long-term effects of COVID-19 and other infections to identify suitable forms of treatment and care.
The study’s findings align with recent data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, which indicates that millions of Americans are reporting symptoms of long COVID that can persist for months or even years. The data also reveals that women are more likely than men to report experiencing long COVID symptoms.
As the world continues to grapple with the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, these new findings shed further light on the long-term consequences of respiratory illnesses. To ensure appropriate medical attention and care for those affected, it is crucial that researchers and healthcare professionals focus on understanding and addressing the lingering symptoms associated with these infections.
In conclusion, the study conducted by Queen Mary University of London emphasizes the need for continued research into the long-term effects of respiratory infections. The high prevalence of long-lasting symptoms in both COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses underscores the urgency to identify effective treatments and support for individuals experiencing prolonged symptoms.
“Infuriatingly humble tv expert. Friendly student. Travel fanatic. Bacon fan. Unable to type with boxing gloves on.”