Long-term side effects and lingering symptoms post COVID-19 recovery

Since the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), our understanding regarding the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of this disease have been improving. However, we still have limited data on long-term effects and lingering symptoms of post COVID-19 recovery. Despite predilection of COVID-19 for lungs, multiple extra-pulmonary manifestations appear in multiple organs and biological systems and with continued infection and recovery worldwide. It is necessary that clinicians provide patients with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection with expectations of long-term effects during or after recovery from COVID-19. Herein, we review the long-term impact of COVID-19 on different organ systems reported from different clinical studies. Understanding risk factors and signs and symptoms of long-term consequences after recovery from COVID-19 will allow for proper follow-up and management of the disease post recovery.

Automated summary

As the understanding of COVID-19's pathophysiology and clinical manifestations improves, it is important to acknowledge the long-term impact on different organ systems. Clinicians should provide patients with expectations of long-term effects post COVID-19 recovery, and understand the risk factors and signs and symptoms for proper follow-up and management.