The scepticism about Long Covid by some healthcare professionals worries me. Iβve had a post-viral syndrome for over 30 years, after my immune system overreacted to a throat infection, attacking my joints, when I was 13. I donβt often discuss this publicly, but here goes... 1/10
At 13, I couldnβt walk, hold a pen/cutlery properly or do simple tasks without severe joint pain & stiffness - for up to a year. 1st GP wasnβt interested in joint pain, just my throat & husky voice. 13yo kids donβt get arthritis, he said. Checked my thyroid - it was fine. 2/10
2nd GP wasnβt sceptical, fortunately. Sent me to a rheumatologist. Blood tests showed inflammation - I had arthritis. So painkillers, hydrotherapy, physiotherapy ... Even 2-3 years later, I still had residual effects & couldnβt go on long walks without joint pain & fatigue. 3/10