A recent study from the Veterans Health Administration system has found that Covid-19 patients were 36% more likely to develop gastrointestinal problems a year after infection than those who did not contract the virus. The study revealed the most common diagnoses to be acid-related disorders such as GERD, and inflammatory illnesses like pancreatitis and cholangitis. It also found that the risk of gastrointestinal problems was higher among Covid patients than the pre-pandemic population.
The study did not look into whether underlying health conditions put people at greater risk, but it did find that those who were hospitalized with Covid-19 were more likely to have long-term gastrointestinal issues than those who were hospitalized with the flu. While some long Covid symptoms are difficult to treat, the gastrointestinal symptoms are thankfully more manageable.
These findings emphasize the importance of taking proper precautions against Covid-19 infection. While the virus is still a serious threat, understanding its long-term effects can help people better manage their health if they are ever infected. It is also important to note that although some Covid-19 symptoms are intractable, many gastrointestinal symptoms are treatable.