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Moving on

Recovery can sometimes take quite some time, although everyone is different. It is fair to say that we probably know the least about longer term recovery. This is largely because the current research recommendations are to follow patients up for "at least 6 months" after Intensive Care. Also, much of the research that has been done has tended to use questionnaires which, although very useful, may not tell us enough about what recovery is like for patients in their everyday lives.

Having spoken to a number of patients at one year after hospital discharge, however, it seems that while some may have lingering physical and psychological issues after being in Intensive Care, many have learned to live with them. The main focus at this time would appear to be keeping well, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting out and about. For some, the "anniversary" of their time in Intensive Care can prompt them to reflect on their emotional journey. In this section, we've provided some links to general information and advice. We hope you find it useful.

 

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Web Link: Loss of sense of smell: link to ENT UK

This link will take you to ENT UK, and their web page on "anosmia", the technical term for the partial or complete loss of your sense of smell. Loss of your sense of smell (a common symptom of COVID) can have a real impact on your appetite and enjoyment of food. This can be a real issue for some people, especially if you have already lost a lot of weight after Intensive Care and/or if you are having problems swallowing. ENT UK report that for many patients, their sense of smell...

Web Link: Loss of sense of smell: link to Nosewell

This link will take you to Nosewell (with support from the British Rhinological Society) and their excellent webpages on the loss of smell after COVID-19. Their guide aims to help you understand more about the loss of your sense of smell. There are also links to Facebook groups, a patient forum, a self-assessment guide, some videos and top tips for managing your loss of sense of smell, and a guide on retraining your sense of smell.

External Video: Louise and her recovery from Swine flu

Video length: 22:33 (Watch now or tap the button above to add this resource to your personal library to watch later) In this video clip, Louise talks about her experiences of being critically ill with Swine flu. Five years on, she talks about the processes of getting better and getting on with her life. You can read interviews,listen to voice recordings and watch clips of other patients' experiences of Intensive Care by using the link to Healthtalkonline.

Web Link: Lowry Theatre Blog

A guide to art and creative activites that you can enjoy from home.

External Video: Managing your physical symptoms using pacing

Video length: 02:16 (Watch now or tap the button above to add this resource to your personal library to watch later) This short clip will explain what 'pacing' is and how it can be used to manage some of your physical symptoms including breathlessness, fatigue and pain.

Web Link: Medicines explained

This link will take you to an NHS page explaining how 100s of different medications work, what they're for, how to take them and possible side-effects. It's not exhaustive, but we hope you find it helpful. 

Web Link: Mental Health at Work - Coronavirus Toolkit

Resources to help support you if you are returning to work from lockdown or self-isolation.

Web Link: Miles & his recovery from Avian Flu

In this brief clip, shown on ITV News during the COVID outbreak, Miles talks about his experiences of recovering from avian flu. He talks about the physical and emotional impact of Intensive Care, the impact on his family, and his determination to recover his life. He also talks about his work with ICUsteps, a patient-led charity, and how important it is that patients and families are aware of the support that's out there, from other people who've been in Intensive Care.

Web Link: Mind: Coronavirus Support

Advice and support for a variety of mental health issues related to Coronavirus.

Web Link: Money Advice Services UK

Advice on benefits, sick pay entitlement and general workers rights as well as a range of various financial advice services.