AMES, Iowa — Millions of Americans continue to experience long-lasting symptoms of COVID-19.
“Next month is my COVID anniversary! Which is actually a horrible anniversary to remember," said Jasmine Conrad of Ames.
Conrad is called a "long-hauler." Symptoms vary from person-to-person and include fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, joint pain and chest pain.
However, those aren't the only long-lasting effects from the novel coronavirus, others include:
- Muscle pain or headache
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Loss of smell or taste
- Memory, concentration or sleep problems
- Rash or hair loss
The Mayo Clinic also lists out organ damage as a potential result of COVID-19. Even those with mild symptoms of the virus have shown lasting damage to their hearts.
Conrad's side effects and symptoms have lasted for nearly a year. Some more extreme than others.
“I went paralyzed in both of my legs in ascending order from my toes up. I gained from my right leg and up to my pelvic area. But my left leg never came back," said Conrad. "I used to play the cello and I can’t get through that right now.”
Conrad spent a month in the hospital.
She still fights fatigue, dizziness, heart palpations, and the inability to sweat.
“It’s been a long year.”
Fortunately, Conrad started aquatic therapy and is starting to gain feeling again in her left leg.
Local 5 discussed long-haulers during "Coronavirus Cause & Effect: Those we have lost." Watch more coverage on Local 5's Youtube channel
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