Prevention & Diagnostics
Long COVID
Myalgic encephalomyelitis / chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a severe neuroimmunological disease. It can be triggered by infections such as COVID-19 and persist for weeks to months after an infection. The main symptoms are a marked intolerance of exertion followed by post-exertional malaise (PEM).
Long COVID & chronic fatigue syndrome
More than just tiredness.
- The slightest exertion can lead to a marked deterioration
- Recovery time can last days or weeks
- Rest often brings no improvement
Typical symptoms are:
- Severe and persistent exhaustion (fatigue)
- Concentration and memory problems (“brain fog”)
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle pain, headaches
- Sleep disorders
- Circulatory problems
What can help?
- Pacing – energy management to avoid overexertion
- Rest & adapted activity
- Good sleep hygiene
- Nutritional support
- Symptomatic treatment through medical care
- Exchange with self-help groups
What family members should know:
- The illness is real and serious
- Those affected need understanding, calm and support
- Not every kind of tiredness is “just” exhaustion – it can be physically debilitating
- Pressure to be active can be harmful
Advice services & links:
- German Society for ME/CFS: www.mecfs.de
- Long COVID Deutschland: www.longcoviddeutschland.org
- Fatigatio e.V.: www.fatigatio.de
Talk to us – we will be glad to advise you in person.