How is long COVID diagnosed?

If you have had coronavirus symptoms for more than four weeks and are worried, contact your GP. We know from calls to our helpline that it can be hard to get a GP appointment sometimes. We have advice about getting a GP appointment.

Your GP will ask about your long COVID symptoms and how they affect your life. They will also talk to you about what care and support you need.

Your GP will ask you questions about your medical history. This is to find out if anything else might be causing your symptoms before they diagnose long COVID.

What questions will my GP ask? 

Your GP might ask:

• Have you had, or do you think you had, coronavirus? 
• What symptoms have you had? 
• Do you have any physical symptoms?
• When did your symptoms start and how long have you had them? 
• Do you have any other medical conditions?
• Do you have any difficulties with your memory or thinking?
• How are you managing everyday activities, like work or school?   
• Have you noticed any changes in your behaviour, emotions, or mood? 

There is no specific test for long COVID, but your GP might refer you for tests to find out more about your different symptoms and rule out other conditions.

The tests might include checking your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels.