Long Covid Service Extended to Cover Wider Range of Conditions
NHS Forth Valley’s previous Long Covid service has been expanded to cover a wider range of conditions.
The new service now supports people living with the long-term effects of infections, known as Post-Acute Infection Syndromes (PAIS).
PAIS is an umbrella term covering a range of conditions that can continue or develop after an infection. These include Long Covid, ME/Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and post-viral Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS), a condition where the heart rate increases very quickly after getting up from sitting or lying down resulting in dizziness or feeing lightheaded.
While most people recover from infections within four weeks, some experience ongoing symptoms that can make recovery longer and more complex. Although there is currently no cure or single agreed treatment, effective symptom management can greatly improve people’s health, wellbeing and quality of life.
The new NHS Forth Valley PAIS service builds on the previous Long Covid service and expands support to people with ME/CFS, post-viral PoTS and other conditions linked to exertion intolerance (which reduces a person’s ability to perform day-to-day activities, leading to symptoms like extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, pain, and dizziness).
The service, which is available to young people aged 16 and over as well as adults, offers a more consistent and inclusive approach, recognising that symptoms and experiences vary from person to person. It provides tailored advice and support to help people manage their symptoms and improve their day-to-day lives. This includes practical guidance, information and referrals to other relevant services and support networks.
Everyone referred to the service receives an initial one-to-one, face-to-face appointment. Follow-up support may be delivered individually or in groups, either in person or online, depending on individual needs and preferences.
The PAIS service has been developed with funding from the Scottish Government, reflecting a continued national commitment to improving care for people affected by these conditions.
Referrals can be made by local GPs, practice nurses or other healthcare professionals involved in a person’s care.
Further information is available on the NHS Forth Valley website: www.nhsforthvalley.com/pais
