Bailey Boring, a 26-year-old Denver resident, has been struggling with chronic pain in her arms and legs since contracting COVID-19 three years ago. Boring is one of many “long haulers” who continue to experience persistent symptoms long after recovering from the virus. Despite the return to normalcy in Colorado post-pandemic, individuals like Boring live with the daily impact of Long COVID, a condition characterized by ongoing symptoms weeks, months, or even years after infection.
Research suggests that between 5% and 30% of COVID-19 survivors nationally experience Long COVID. Boring, along with conservatively over 100,000 Coloradans, navigates through a range of debilitating symptoms, including pain, fatigue, and cognitive issues. Unfortunately, diagnosing and understanding Long COVID remains a challenge due to the lack of defining characteristics and testing methods.
In response to the increasing cases of Long COVID, specialized clinics have emerged across the country, including in Denver, offering multidisciplinary approaches to address a wide range of symptoms. These clinics aim to educate policymakers, advance research, and provide resources to support individuals grappling with Long COVID. Vaccination continues to be the best prevention method against serious illness, including Long COVID, according to health authorities.
Boring, who has seen numerous specialists with little improvement, hopes to join a clinical trial to manage her symptoms and regain her quality of life. As she continues to navigate through the challenges of Long COVID, Boring remains hopeful for a future free from the fear of falling ill again.
