As the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, a new reality is quietly emerging: millions of people are living with long-term complications even after recovery. As a pulmonologist, I am seeing an increasing number of patients with persistent pulmonary dysfunction. This is a complex syndrome that severely impacts patients' quality of life and ability to work. The numbers speak for themselves: According to a World Health Organization (WHO) survey, approximately 10–20% of people infected with COVID-19 may experience long-term symptoms even after recovery, with shortness of breath, persistent cough, and fatigue being the most common symptoms. In Japan, a 2023 survey conducted by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare found that up to 32% of patients after COVID-19 infection reported reduced activity due to shortness of breath, especially among those over 50 years of age. At my clinic, an average of five to seven patients visit each week complaining of shortness of breath, despite having tested negative for the virus several months prior. Previously healthy individuals with no history of respiratory illness now find themselves fatigued even when climbing a few flights of stairs. Damage not only to the lungs, but also to the mind and society. The case of Ayumi, a 42-year-old office worker in Tokyo, remains unforgettable. After recovering from COVID-19, she began to feel short of breath when talking for long periods of time, began coughing frequently at night, and was unable to exercise as before. As a result, she lost confidence, avoided communication, and gradually fell into a mild depression. She visited many medical institutions, but was only advised that the condition would resolve naturally if she waited a few more months. In fact, post-COVID-19 symptoms are not "temporary" for everyone. In some patients, the virus leaves microscopic lesions in the lung parenchyma, causing mild fibrosis, reduced lung elasticity, and impaired gas exchange. These lesions cannot be detected by routine clinical tests and require specialized equipment such as high-resolution CT scans, digital spirometers, and arterial blood gas monitors. Basics of Respiratory Function: The lungs are the organs responsible for gas exchange, where oxygen is absorbed into the blood and carbon dioxide is expelled. This function depends on the following factors: Vital capacity: The total amount of air the lungs can hold. Expiratory flow: The rate at which air is expelled from the lungs. Gas diffusion capacity: The efficiency of gas exchange between the alveoli and capillaries. When these factors are impaired by inflammation, fibrosis, neuromuscular disease, etc., patients experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and reduced mobility. Post-COVID-19, all three factors may be affected, depending on the initial level of damage and individual constitution. Why consult a specialist? A common mistake is for patients to self-treat at home or visit a non-respiratory facility. Misdiagnosing the extent of damage can lead to ineffective treatment, prolonged recovery, and complications. At the Respiratory Center, we offer the following tests for our patients: Pulmonary function measurement using a digital spirometer (helps accurately determine the degree of ventilation limitation) High-resolution CT scan (detects microscopic lesions such as pulmonary fibrosis and persistent inflammation) 6-minute walking exercise test (assess respiratory system tolerance) Pulmonary rehabilitation advice (breathing exercises, physical therapy, nutritional guidance, etc.) In addition, our specialists can clearly distinguish between post-COVID-19 symptoms and other respiratory diseases, such as asthma, COPD, and neuromuscular diseases, and provide appropriate treatment plans. Expert Advice If you or a family member experience any of the following symptoms: Shortness of breath during light exercise A prolonged cough with no clear cause Persistent fatigue despite adequate rest Shortness of breath while talking or lying down Don't take it personally. Early respiratory testing not only helps identify the cause but also increases the chances of a rapid and comprehensive recovery. Love and Dedication to the Profession As a doctor who graduated from the University of Toronto, I received formal training in respiratory medicine and ICU care. I understand that treatment is not just about prescribing medication, but also about helping patients overcome anxiety and regain confidence in their health. We are committed to providing accurate, humane, and personalized medical testing and treatment services using the latest technology and knowledge. The post-COVID-19 situation presents new challenges, but we believe that with the cooperation of doctors and patients, we can overcome them. If you are interested in a respiratory function assessment or need advice on post-COVID-19 recovery, please contact our dedicated staff. We will provide you with careful and attentive support. To make a reservation, please click here: [Phone number / Email address / Registration form] Test location: Department of Respiratory Medicine, The University of Tokyo Hospital
