As COVID-19 active infections touch 7,300 mark with the death toll reaching 11, it is time for us to pull out my masks and sanitizers again. Doctors have already been warning us against the long-lasting issues that the virus can cause. But these don't seem serious till they get to us.

We know COVID-19 as the virus that comes with cough, cold and mild fever. But with the recent strains leading to a steady increase in active cases, doctors are reporting a lesser-known problem: gut health issues after COVID-19. So it is not just temperature anymore, people are experiencing indigestion during and even after weeks of recovering from COVID-19. After testing negative as well, long-term issues like acidity, diarrhea, bloating and stomach pain are becoming common symptoms recently.

Also Read: Is Your Health Plan Covid Ready? Here’s How To Check

Dr. Ashish Gautam, Senior Director, Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery, Gastrointestinal Surgeon, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi, has said "After COVID, we’re seeing more patients with unexplained stomach issues that don’t go away easily." He also mentioned that the virus can affect the gut as well, not just lungs.

The virus simply enters the stomach and damages the gut lining. This leads to poor digestion, inflammation, and also results in changes in the gut bacteria. So, while you may think that once the fewer is gone and cough goes away you will be back to normal, but the new strain reminds you that the virus is still there in your body. For many patients, the stomach-related issues only show up weeks later.

Also Read: COVID-19 Cases In India Cross 7,400 Mark: Doctors Warn Of New Symptom Patterns As Virus May Attack Healthy Cells

• Stomach pain
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Acidity or acid reflux
• Loss of appetite

These issues can last for weeks or even months for some people. While for others, they may also become long-term problems.