There are more than two million people in the UK who are experiencing self-reported long Covid, according to the Office for National Statistics. Now, researchers have found that there are three different subtypes of long Covid, each with its unique set of symptoms.
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Three subtypes
Researchers from King’s College London arrived at this conclusion after examining 1,459 people living with long Covid (symptoms continuing for more than four weeks after the first suspected Covid-19 infection). According to an article published in The Independent, the study showed that people with long Covid could be categorized into three main groups including:
- Those with neurological symptoms including fatigue, brain fog and headache – most commonly associated with people who had the most dominant strains; alpha and delta.
- A second group who experienced respiratory symptoms, including chest pain and shortness of breath — those infected in the first wave of the virus.
- The third group experiencing a range of symptoms including heart palpitations, muscle ache and pain, and changes in skin and hair.
Clinical lead author Dr Claire Steves, from King’s College London, said:
These data show clearly that post-Covid syndrome is not just one condition, but appears to have several subtypes. Understanding the root causes of these subtypes may help in finding treatment strategies.
Future diagnosis and treatment
The researchers say loss or change of smell or taste can cause people to suffer distress, urging health systems to be prepared to support people who often feel isolated when dismissed by clinicians. They are hopeful the findings of the study will emphasize the need for services targeting sufferers of long Covid to be more tailored to the specific issues of each individual.
Dr Liane Canas, from King’s College London, who also took part in the study, added:
These insights could aid in the development of personalized diagnosis and treatment for these individuals.
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