We run a long Covid service to support and manage patients living in Bolton suffering with the long term effects of COVID-19.

Long COVID is recognised as the signs and symptoms that develop during or after an infection consistent with COVID-19, and continue for more than 4 weeks after the acute illness stage, and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis.

Referrals into the service are made via your GP, who will first rule out other illnesses to make sure that you are getting the right care.

Your recovery

The length of time needed to recover from Covid-19 will vary from person to person and it is important not to compare yourself to others.

Some of the most common COVID-19 effects include:

• Breathlessness
• Muscle weakness and joint stiffness
• Extreme tiredness (fatigue) and a lack of energy
• Loss of appetite and weight loss
• Sleep problems
• Problems with mental abilities – for example, not being able to remember some events, think clearly and being forgetful
• Changes in your mood, or anxiety or depression
• Nightmares or flashbacks
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Whatever problems you are experiencing are important if they are causing you concern or limiting you. Every individual experience is unique.

Learn more here.