Recovery from Coronavirus

Here is some useful information from the HSE.ie website about recovery from Coronavirus. You can find up to date information on Coronavirus here https://www2.hse.ie/coronavirus/

Recovering after Coronavirus

It’s common to have health symptoms or side effects after having coronavirus (COVID-19).

Some people have physical problems such as extreme tiredness (fatigue) or muscle pain. Others can experience mood changes or nightmares. Some people have no symptoms or side effects at all.

Symptoms or side effects can depend on how mild or severe your illness from coronavirus was. It can also depend on if you were in hospital or not.

Getting back to normal after coronavirus can take some people a few months. But things usually improve over time.

Physical problems after coronavirus

Physical problems you might experience while recovering from coronavirus include:

• muscle weakness and joint stiffness
• extreme tiredness (fatigue) and a lack of energy
• reduced mobility
• breathlessness – read a guide on managing breathlessness
• phlegm build-up – read how to clear phlegm from your lungs
• weaker physical fitness
• loss of appetite and weight loss
• lack of sense of smell or taste
• stomach problems – this includes heartburn, diarrhoea and vomiting
• difficulties swallowing – read advice on how to manage this

Mental and emotional problems after coronavirus

Mental and emotional problems you might experience while recovering from coronavirus include:

• sleep problems – this can often develop after being in hospital, where it can be difficult to sleep
• problems with mental abilities – for example, not being able to remember some events, think clearly and being forgetful
• changes in your mood, or depression or anxiety
• nightmares or flashbacks
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• confusion or delirium

Read advice on minding your mental health during the coronavirus pandemic

When to get medical help

Phone your GP or hospital team if you find it difficult to cope with your symptoms. They will give you the support you need and direct you to services.

Many mental health services and organisations provide free online and phone services.

This includes:

• online counselling and support
• phone support
• text support

Read more about mental health supports and services available during coronavirus

Recovery time

Suffering a severe illness and spending time in hospital can be extremely stressful.

Some people recover from coronavirus quickly and do not need much support. Other people will need more time and help. Your recovery time could depend on the level of treatment you got in hospital.

It can take months to fully recover. Everyone is different. It’s important not to compare yourself to others.

Having good and bad days during your recovery is normal. It’s OK to feel this way.

Things that might help you to feel a bit better in your recovery include:

• talk to family, friends or your GP
• do things you enjoy
• rest and relax – meditation or mindfulness may help
• be kind to yourself

Supports and services

Community support is available to help with:

• collection and delivery of food, essential household items, fuel, and medication
• social isolation
• other medical or healthcare needs

Read more about community support during the coronavirus pandemic

Mental health services providing online and phone service are available.

These include:

• online counselling and support
• phone support
• text support

Read more about mental health supports and services during coronavirus

Related topics

Fatigue after coronavirus

Exercise while recovering from coronavirus

Breathlessness after coronavirus