Specialist care for patients suffering long-term effects of Covid

Care for long COVID patients

Following the first wave of the pandemic, innovative post-COVID-19 follow-up care was established to help survivors of the virus with their long-term recovery.

As a specialist cardio-respiratory centre, with additional expertise in intensive care, the Trust’s clinicians cared for some of the sickest COVID-19 patients with severe acute respiratory failure. Many of these patients continue to experience long-term effects after being discharged.

Consultant in intensive care and respiratory medicine Dr Sundeep Kaul said: “There are a host of issues that require attention in post-COVID-19 patients, ranging from shortness of breath to fatigue to joint problems.”

Patients are supported by a variety of clinical disciplines including respiratory medicine, critical care and cardiology, as well as rehabilitation and therapies.

After initial visits in person to the hospitals, patients are treated remotely via video and telephone calls. Patients are offered personalised care based on their specific rehabilitation needs.

Respiratory registrar Lydia Finney explained: “We involve a multidisciplinary team as it has become apparent that the virus has wide-ranging effects.”

Patients who are suffering from breathlessness, for example, benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation and are referred to the pulmonary rehabilitation service at Harefield Hospital.

Some patients experience shoulder issues and hand weakness, impacting their ability to return to work or drive, and are referred to specialist musculoskeletal physiotherapists and other specialists for strengthening exercises.

Others are treated for issues ranging from respiratory problems, blood clots and cardiac issues to lethargy and hair loss.

Vanessa Vyapooree, patient
Vanessa Vyapooree, pictured, was treated at Royal Brompton Hospital for Covid-19 and received life support via extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)

Former intensive care patient Vanessa Vyapooree said: "The follow-up was fantastic. Being home from hospital can be somewhat daunting and there was a level of anxiety as to whether I was progressing positively in my recovery. Having the follow-up care gave me confidence that I would know either way and if it wasn't great, there would be some immediate help on hand to get me on the right track.” 


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