Doctors Concerned About 'Long Haul Syndrome' From COVID-19

A coalition of doctors and healthcare providers in Oklahoma is warning everyone about long-term effects of COVID-19.

"Long haul syndrome" means it could take a while for those who recovered from the virus to feel back to normal.

Doctors say about 10 percent of people who get COVID-19 develop prolonged symptoms.

It could take longer than a month to feel back to normal.

On Tuesday, the Healthier Oklahoma Coalition, which is made up of doctors and healthcare providers, provided an update about COVID-19 in the state.

They say while case counts keep going down, they are concerned about long-term effects for those who recovered.

Dr. Stan Schwartz has been studying long haul syndrome, which looks at the virus's effect on the body.

Schwartz says the virus affects major organs and for some people nd can include damage to the lungs, kidneys, heart, and pancreas.

Others complain of shortness of breath, discomfort in the chest, brain fog and psychological symptoms.

"It's going to be something we're going to be seeing a lot of I think considering the millions of people who have had COVID in this country,” said Schwartz. “I think we'll see quite a few folks with these long haul symptoms and we'll be learning a whole lot about it as we go along."

Schwartz says it's best to talk to your doctor if you continue to have long-term symptoms.