What is long COVID?
Some people continue to have symptoms for weeks or months after a COVID-19 infection. Common ones include breathlessness, fatigue, chest tightness, a changed breathing pattern and reduced tolerance of exercise.
If you are severely short of breath, have chest pain, or your lips or fingertips look blue, call 000. If your symptoms are getting worse, or something new starts, see your GP.
How respiratory physiotherapy helps
- Breathing pattern retraining: for the upper-chest or over-breathing pattern that often develops after illness.
- Assessment of exercise tolerance: including heart rate and oxygen responses.
- Fatigue-aware, graded activity: pacing and a gradual increase that avoids symptom flare-ups (post-exertional symptom exacerbation).
- Inspiratory muscle training: where appropriate.
We will let your GP know if anything in your assessment needs medical follow-up.
Your first visit
- 40 minutes: a full assessment of your breathing, your chest and how you manage with activity.
- A plan from day one: we agree goals with you and start treatment on the day.
- No referral needed: Medicare GPCCMP, DVA, NDIS and HICAPS accepted.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly. A GP referral is only needed if you want to claim a Medicare rebate through a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP), or if you are a DVA client.
Can I claim on Medicare or my health fund?
Yes, in most cases. With a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan from your GP, Medicare pays $63.40 back for each visit, so a first visit costs you $45 and a follow-up $25. Private health extras are claimed on the spot with HICAPS. See our fees page.
Trusted information: Lung Foundation Australia