A groundbreaking new definition of long COVID has emerged, offering hope to those affected by the condition by providing clarity in diagnosis and treatment. Previous definitions of long COVID varied widely, causing confusion with different symptoms, timelines, and proof of infection requirements. This lack of consistency left many patients feeling unheard and struggling to access the care they needed.
Over 1,300 individuals contributed to shaping this new definition, which embraces the term “long COVID” coined by patients themselves. This shift in terminology aims to validate the experiences of those battling the long-term effects of COVID-19, like Daria Oller, a physical therapist from New Jersey who has been living with long COVID since 2020. Oller emphasizes the importance of using the patients’ chosen name, highlighting the years of struggle and advocacy behind it.
Date: 2024-06-12 08:00:00
Source: www.sciencenews.org