Read on Twitter
Update: It's been a month since I was released from covid isolation, and lest anyone think this virus wasn't serious, let me assure you: I am still a long way from my former self (thread) https://twitter.com/EmmaMci/status/1337043885353295881
Disclaimer: I don't think I count as a long-hauler since it's only been a month for me, and I know a lot of folks have it worse. I don't want sympathy, just sharing so folks understand how serious this can be.
That being said, here's where I'm at a month after covid: I still cannot exercise. A 10-minute bike ride makes me feel like I'm going to faint. I still have to walk slowly if I'm going anywhere more than 15 minutes away, or if I have to carry anything.
My sense of smell/taste is mostly back — maybe 90-95 per cent normal. I notice it if I'm cooking a familiar favourite, it often tastes like something subtle is missing. For a while there I kept oversalting my food by accident because I assumed that was the issue, lol
Other miscellaneous stuff: My feet get a lot colder than they used to, and they fall asleep more easily. Joints that have never had any problems feel weird and off. It's hard for me to fall asleep, which was not an issue before. My muscles are weak. Running is out of the question
The good: I'm able to work, which is great because I really like my job. My energy levels have rebounded enough that I have the strength to do that, and do chores/errands, and go on walks, etc. And I'm still getting better, slowly. Thank goodness!
If you ask me how I'm doing at any given time, the answer is probably going to be "pretty good" because I do actually feel alright most of the time! As long as I'm sleeping enough and pacing myself. And I'm a lot better than I was a month ago.
Things that have helped:
- Extremely gentle yoga and walks (in consultation with a doctor)
- As much sleep as possible
- Warm socks
- Pacing myself as much as possible
- Extremely gentle yoga and walks (in consultation with a doctor)
- As much sleep as possible
- Warm socks
- Pacing myself as much as possible
My ability to push myself is very core to my identity, and it's been profoundly weird to just... not be able to do that. I don't know why covid hit me this hard, but it did. I know it's tough, but please continue to take this thing seriously — trust me, you do not want this (end)
Oh, actually, one more thing that has helped: this Facebook group has made me feel a lot more sane! https://www.facebook.com/groups/COVID19survivorcorps
