Long COVID Acronyms
The following is a list of acronyms commonly used by people with Long COVID:
| Acronym | Term | Description |
|
CBC |
Complete Blood Count |
A lab test frequently ordered for people with Long COVID to assess overall health and detect abnormalities such as anemia or infections that may contribute to fatigue and other symptoms. |
|
CFS |
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome |
An alternative name for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), often used interchangeably. Both conditions are characterized by debilitating fatigue, post-exertional malaise (PEM), and other overlapping symptoms. |
|
CMP |
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel |
A blood test frequently ordered for Long COVID patients to check for electrolyte imbalances, kidney function, and liver health, which can be impacted by the condition. |
|
CRP |
C-Reactive Protein |
A marker of inflammation commonly tested in people with Long COVID. Elevated levels may indicate ongoing inflammation or an immune response contributing to symptoms. |
|
EBV |
Epstein-Barr Virus | A virus that can reactivate in people with Long COVID, potentially contributing to symptoms such as fatigue and neurological issues. |
|
HR |
Heart Rate | Long COVID patients often monitor their heart rate using wearable devices to manage symptoms like dysautonomia and avoid post-exertional malaise (PEM). |
|
HRV |
Heart Rate Variability | A measure of the variation in time between heartbeats. Monitoring HRV can help individuals with Long COVID assess their autonomic nervous system function and manage symptoms. |
|
IVIG |
Intravenous immunoglobulin | A treatment involving the infusion of antibodies from healthy donors. It is used to treat autoimmune disorders and small fiber neuropathy (SFN), both of which can occur in Long COVID patients. |
|
IVM |
Ivermectin | An anti-parasitic drug. While controversial, some have advocated for its use in treating acute COVID and Long COVID symptoms. |
|
LC |
Long COVID | An umbrella term that encompasses the many different health problems experienced after the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection. |
|
LDN |
Low Dose Naltrexone | Some Long COVID patients use this medication in small doses (0.5-10mg) to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. It is typically prescribed for other conditions in much higher doses. |
|
MCAS |
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome | A disorder where mast cells release excessive chemicals into the body, causing symptoms like allergic reactions, rashes, and gastrointestinal issues. Many people with Long COVID report MCAS symptoms. |
|
ME |
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis | A chronic illness with symptoms that often overlap with Long COVID, including profound fatigue, post-exertional malaise (PEM), unrefreshing sleep, and cognitive impairment. |
|
ME/CFS |
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome | A combined term to reduce confusion and acknowledge the overlap between ME and CFS diagnoses. |
|
NAC |
N-Acetylcysteine | A supplement that acts as a precursor to glutathione, a key antioxidant. Some Long COVID patients use it to reduce oxidative stress and improve respiratory function. |
|
NAD+ |
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide |
A coenzyme essential for cellular energy production. Some Long COVID patients take NAD+ or its precursors to address fatigue and support mitochondrial function. |
|
OTS |
Orthostatic Intolerance | A condition where standing leads to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, often seen in people with Long COVID due to dysautonomia. |
|
PASC |
Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID | A formal medical term for Long COVID, commonly used in research and clinical settings. |
|
PEM |
Post-exertional Malaise | A hallmark symptom of Long COVID where physical or mental exertion worsens symptoms, often leading to what patients describe as a “crash.” |
|
POTS |
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome | Many Long COVID patients develop this syndrome, which is characterized by an abnormal increase in heart rate upon standing, leading to symptoms like lightheadedness and fatigue. |
|
PRP |
Platelet-Rich Plasma | A treatment where a patient’s blood is processed to concentrate platelets rich in growth factors. Some Long COVID patients use PRP to treat lingering symptoms. |
|
SFN |
Small Fiber Neuropathy | A condition involving damage to small nerve fibers, causing pain, tingling, or burning sensations, often seen in Long COVID patients. |
|
SGB |
Stellate Ganglion Block | A procedure where a local anesthetic is injected into the nerves of the neck. Some Long COVID patients report symptom improvement after undergoing SGB. |
|
SOB |
Shortness of Breath | A common symptom in Long COVID, often linked to respiratory or cardiovascular issues. |