That is the estimate pulmonologist João Carlos Winck gave to the Lusa news agency on October 10, according to Executive Digest. The figure is based on the number of COVID cases, as Portugal has not conducted epidemiological studies on the condition.
According to the WHO, long COVID symptoms persist for at least two months and cannot be explained by another diagnosis. They include extreme fatigue, worsening symptoms after exertion, memory problems, a rapid heartbeat and dizziness. In severe cases, people are unable to get out of bed or tolerate bright light.
There is no test that can confirm the diagnosis, so patients are often diagnosed with depression or anxiety instead, says rheumatologist Jaime Branco in an interview with Observador. On average, patients see five doctors before their condition is recognised. An international survey published in EClinicalMedicine in 2021 found that 45% of people with long COVID had reduced their working hours, while 22% were unable to work at all.
Clinics opened after the pandemic have gradually closed, and there is no unified referral network to connect patients with specialists. The patient association Aliança Millions Missing is calling for more flexible school arrangements for children, a dedicated allocation of appointments within Portugal’s National Health Service (SNS), and the creation of a national clinical centre.
If your symptoms persist for months, start by seeing your family doctor at a local health centre (centro de saúde) and keep a symptom diary, noting what makes you feel worse and what level of exertion triggers it. If activity aggravates your symptoms, work with a doctor to develop a rehabilitation plan.
