Long-term symptoms after covid-19

For some people, coronavirus (covid-19) can cause symptoms that last for weeks and months after the infection has gone. These long-term symptoms have previously been referred to as «long covid», «post-covid» or «post-covid-19 syndrome».

What are the most common symptoms?

Many people who have covid-19 experience a mild and transient disease, and recover well after a few weeks. Some however develop ongoing problems after the acute phase, and it takes longer before they can return to their everyday activities. If you experience symptoms for over four weeks, this may be long-term symptoms after covid-19.

The most common symptoms are:

  • reduced sense of smell or taste
  • extreme tiredness (fatigue)
  • sore throat
  • problems with memory and concentration (‘brain fog’)
  • difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • headaches
  • shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness
  • joint pain
  • dizziness

The severity of the symptoms and how long they last for will vary from person to person.

Where can I seek help?

Depending on the symptoms you are experiening, medical treatment may be necessary.

General Practitioner

If you experience symptoms for more than four weeks that affect your everyday activities, the Norwegian Directorate of Health recommends that you consult your general practitioner (GP) (‘fastlege’ in Norwegian).

Your GP will talk to you about your individual situation and evaluate your need for treatment/rehabilitation. In some cases you may be referred to a specialist for further consultation.

Information in English about general practitioners (Norwegian Directorate of Health).

Healthy Life Centres

Many of Oslo’s districts (district; ‘bydel’ in Norwegian) have Healthy Life Centres (HLCs). HLCs are a municipal health service aiming to promote good health and preventative activites. These services are available to residents of the respective district.

You can contact the HLCs directly for more information about their services. The information in these pages is in Norwegian.

To contact your local HLC, select your district in the drop down menu for contact information. Your GP, another healthcare professional or NAV can also provide you with a refferal.

Overview of district Healthy Life Centres in Oslo.

Some HLCs offer services spesifically for people who experience long-term covid-19 symptoms. The information in these pages is in Norwegian. Select the individual HLC to find contact information for inquiries.

Rehabilitation services

Contact Oslo kommune for guidance regarding services that may be available to you.

You or your GP can also call the ReHabilitation phone line to receive information and guidance regarding rehabilitation services in your local health region. The ReHabilitation phone line is available at +47 800 300 61 Mon - Fri at 09:00-15:00.

Where can I find more information?

National health websites provide more information in English about long-term symptoms after covid-19. This includes material regarding long-term symptoms, advice/guidance and rehabilitation.