There are many factors that impact the rise in long-term sickness, and it is useful to note that numbers had been rising before the pandemic, the direct and indirect impacts of Covid-19 and Long Covid are clear.
In a report released on 5th December 2022, the Office of National Statistics said:
“Today’s analysis shows that working-age people are less likely to participate in the labour market after developing long COVID symptoms than they were before being infected with coronavirus (COVID-19).”
Among people of working-age (excluding those in full time education or eligible for retirement), the odds of economic inactivity for those reporting Long Covid after they experienced Covid-19 were increased by 45.5%, 30-39 weeks after infection, compared to before being infected by Covid-19. This number was 71.2% in those aged 50-64 that reported having Long Covid.
The symptoms of Long Covid very in type and severity from person to person, and can often be confused or misdiagnosed as other health issues. Some common symptoms are:
- Fatigue
- Sleep problems
- Confusion, memory issues, and problems concentrating – sometimes called “brain fog”
- Problems with temperature regulation
- Headaches
- Depression and anxiety
- Changes in taste and smell
Alongside rising diagnosed Long Covid cases, other causes of long-term sickness affecting individuals ability to work have also been on the rise, with a 41% rise in other health problems and disabilities.
Dr Finlay’s runs a specialised Long Covid clinic, run by our founder Dr Ben Sinclair, who has personally suffered with Long Covid and understands first hand the impact it can have on sufferers lives and daily activities. We know getting support through the NHS can be an uphill battle, and patients can be dismissed or symptoms can be put down to other causes meaning treatment may not be effective.
Our Long Covid clinic exists to enable you to thrive again. We use an integrated approach to address your full range of symptoms, from the physical to the psychological and emotional. Our expertise in sleep, energy, nutrition and lifestyle integration mean we can create a personally tailored recovery plan that truly fits your needs, and helps you feel like you again.
To book an appointment, book here on our website or give the team a call.
Resources:
https://www.clydeco.com/en/insights/2022/12/long-term-sickness