Pain most common symptom of long Covid, new research finds

Study findings support a 2023 BMA survey of doctors suffering with long Covid, in which most reported symptoms included fatigue, headaches, muscular pain and joint pain

Pain, including headache, joint and stomach pain is the most common and severe symptom of long Covid, reported by 26.5% of people, according to a UCL-led study.

Other prevalent symptoms include neuropsychological issues like anxiety and depression (18.4%), fatigue (14.3%), and shortness of breath (7.4%). The study also found the intensity of symptoms, particularly pain, increased by 3.3% on average each month since first noted.

Between November 2020 and March 2022, 1,000 participants in England and Wales self-reported symptoms via an app. Data revealed people aged 68-77 reported 32.8% more severe symptoms, while those aged 78-87 reported an 86% increase in symptom intensity compared to 18–27-year-olds. Women reported 9.2% more intense symptoms, including pain, than men.

Socioeconomic status also influenced symptom intensity. Although the number of symptoms did not significantly vary, those from the most deprived areas reported more intense symptoms than those from less deprived areas, suggesting that while deprivation may exacerbate symptom intensity, it does not lead to a broader range of symptoms.

Dr David Sunkersing, Lead Author from UCL’s Institute of Health Informatics said: “Our study highlights pain as a predominant self-reported symptom in long Covid, but it also shows how demographic factors appear to play a significant role in symptom severity. With ongoing occurrences of Covid-19, the potential for more long Covid cases remains a pressing concern. Our findings can help shape targeted interventions and support strategies for those most at risk.”

These findings corroborate those from a 2023 British Medical Association (BMA) survey of doctors suffering with long Covid, which found fatigue, headaches, muscular pain, nerve damage, joint pain, and ongoing respiratory problems were the most reported symptoms.

“[The report] lays bare the debilitating effect that the virus continues to have on those doctors living with long-term symptoms.”

Professor David Strain, BMA Board of Science Chair, said their report “lay bare the debilitating effect that the virus continues to have on those doctors living with long-term symptoms. Many describe not being able to do basic daily tasks like brushing their hair, cooking for their children or the basic arithmetic required to pay for items in shops, let alone go to work as a doctor.”

In addition, a study from Keele University and the University of Birmingham found that people with long Covid whose symptoms lasted more than 28 weeks — the maximum period of statutory employment protection — were three times more likely to leave employment compared to those without Covid symptoms,

"The research demonstrates the significant impact which long Covid has had on individuals’ employment outcomes, particularly for those who leave work,” said Professor Paul Sissons, Professor of Regional Economic Development and Policy at Keele University Business School. “Long Covid poses a twin challenge to employers of providing adaptations and flexibility to help employees manage the physical symptoms, as well as better supporting mental health and well-being." 

Poor mental health was a big factor for those with long Covid compared to those with no symptoms, and even more so for those with symptoms for 29+ weeks, who were more likely to adapt function with their symptoms.

The UCL study calls for sustained support for long Covid clinics and the development of treatment strategies prioritising pain management, alongside other prevalent symptoms. It also emphasises the need for healthcare policies that ensures equitable care for all individuals affected by long Covid.