For most people, COVID-related symptoms disappear after a few weeks. But in a large group, symptoms persist for months or even years. This is also called post-COVID, long COVID, or prolonged COVID. It can have a major impact on your daily life, work, and health. In this blog, you’ll read what post-COVID is, which symptoms are common, and how you can work step by step toward recovery. Don’t have time to read the blog? Then download the MotiMove app right away.
In this blog, you’ll read
- What is post-COVID?
- Common symptoms
- Possible causes
- Impact on daily life
- Recovery: what can you do yourself?
- The importance of movement
- How MotiMove can help
- Frequently asked questions
What is post-COVID?
Post-COVID means that symptoms persist for longer than 3 months after a COVID infection. It doesn’t matter whether you had a severe or mild infection; people with a mild illness can also develop long-term symptoms. It’s not yet exactly clear why this happens, but it occurs worldwide.
Common symptoms
People with post-COVID often experience:
- Extreme fatigue (also known as fatigue)
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle and joint pain
- Heart palpitations
- Concentration problems (“brain fog”)
- Sleep problems
- Headaches
Possible causes
Researchers believe that post-COVID is caused by a combination of factors: a dysregulated immune system, inflammation in the body, or damage to organs such as the lungs and heart. Because symptoms vary from person to person, there is no standard treatment.
Impact on daily life
Post-COVID can affect:
- Work: being able to work fewer hours or sick leave
- Social life: having to cancel appointments
- Sports and hobbies: less energy to move
- Mental well-being: low mood, frustration, or uncertainty
Recovery: what can you do yourself?
Recovering from post-COVID requires patience and balance. Listen to your body, plan rest moments, and build up activities slowly. This is also called pacing: distributing your energy well throughout the day. Avoid overexertion, but do try to keep moving.
The importance of movement
Movement can help keep your muscles strong, improve your fitness, and support your mood. But with post-COVID, it’s important to move calmly and in a controlled way. Building up too quickly can worsen your symptoms.
How MotiMove can help
The MotiMove app is ideal for people with post-COVID, because you can work on recovery at your own pace. You get gentle exercise videos, tips to better manage your symptoms, and you can track your progress. This way, you gradually rebuild your fitness without pushing beyond your limits.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How long does post-COVID last?
That varies from person to person. For some, symptoms disappear after a few months; for others, it takes longer.
Can I exercise with post-COVID?
Yes, but start very gently and listen closely to your body.
Does MotiMove help with fatigue?
Yes, through tailored exercises that build your energy without overexertion.
Should I see a doctor?
Yes, if your symptoms worsen or significantly limit your daily life.