THE Hampshire and Isle of Wight Long Covid Service has released a series of short videos to help people with the condition.

The 26 videos were produced to aid those with breathing difficulties and fatigue following a Covid infection to better understand and manage their symptoms.

Most people with COVID-19 feel better within a few days or weeks and make a full recovery within 12 weeks. However, for some people, symptoms can last longer. This is called long Covid or post-Covid-19 syndrome.

The first set of videos will help people understand more about normal breathing and why they may be feeling more breathless following infection. It highlights strategies to help people improve their breathing to reduce symptoms of breathlessness and irritable cough, as well as guidance on how to return to activity and exercise.

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The second set of videos were put together to help people living with fatigue. Topics include the importance of energy management through planning and pacing of daily activities, rest, relaxation and improving sleep quality.

Karen West, from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Long Covid Service, said: “Although the principles of fatigue management are quite simple, putting them into practice can be challenging and, in our experience, people need to learn how to allow their bodies to take rest when then they need it.

“Although these videos were designed for patients experiencing Long Covid, the self-management techniques described would also be very useful for anyone experiencing symptoms of fatigue, or who have been diagnosed with a breathing pattern disorder such as asthma or COPD.”

Emma Major, also from the Long Covid Service, added: “When we recorded the videos in March 2023, 1.8 million people in the UK were estimated to have Long Covid, and Long Covid symptoms are adversely affecting the day-to-day activities of 1.5 million people.

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“There are more than 200 symptoms associated with Long Covid, which may include respiratory, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, neurological and dermatological issues. People also report mental health issues; predominately depression and anxiety.

“Everyone's experience of Long Covid will be different but fatigue, breathlessness and problems with memory, concentration and other mental functions are very common.”

The full series of videos can be found on the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board website and on YouTube.