COVID-19 Recovery Specialist

Michael N. Newton MD

Pulmonology & Sleep Specialists located in Tampa, FL

Since its discovery in December 2019, more than a million people in Florida have tested positive for COVID-19. Though the disease affects everyone differently, some people may continue to struggle with health problems after their COVID-19 recovery. At the office of Michael N. Newton MD, in Tampa, Florida, Dr. Newton provides COVID-19 recovery care. If you have symptoms or concerns about COVID-19, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

COVID-19 Recovery Q & A

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). 

SARS-CoV-2 is a newly discovered type of coronavirus. It spreads from person-to-person through droplets expelled into the air after someone with the infection sneezes, coughs, or talks. 

Because COVID-19 is a new disease, the long-term effects of the infection are yet unknown. However, doctors and researchers continue to learn new things about the virus and the disease so they can protect you and your health. 

What are COVID-19 symptoms?

Once infected, most people start to show symptoms within 14 days. However, not everyone with the virus has symptoms. 

Common COVID-19 symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle aches
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting

In some cases, COVID-19 causes severe respiratory problems that require hospitalization and ventilator support. 

How long is COVID-19 recovery?

Recovery following a COVID-19 infection varies. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with a mild to moderate infection typically recover from the disease in about 10 days. 

For those with more severe symptoms or a compromised immune system, recovery may take up to 20 days.

What are the known prolonged effects of COVID-19?

Not everyone fully recovers from their COVID-19 infection, including those with mild cases. Some people continue to feel sick even after recovering from their initial symptoms.

Though doctors and researchers are still learning about the long-term effects of COVID-19, it’s currently theorized that prolonged symptoms may include:

  • Chronic fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Joint pain
  • Ongoing cough
  • Headaches
  • Muscle aches
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Memory or concentration problems
  • Hair loss
  • Skin rash

COVID-19 may also permanently damage vital organs, including the lungs, heart, or brain. The disease may make your blood more prone to blood clots, increasing the risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

When should I seek COVID-19 recovery care?

Dr. Newton is an experienced pulmonologist and specializes in lung infections. You should seek COVID-19 recovery care if you had the disease and continue to experience symptoms. 

Dr. Newton conducts a comprehensive evaluation and provides treatments that may alleviate symptoms. He also closely follows COVID-19 research so he can better understand the prolonged effects of the disease and support your recovery. 

To get help for your COVID-19 recovery, call the office of Michael N. Newton MD, or book an appointment online today.