Post-acute COVID-19 syndrome negatively impacts physical function, cognitive function, health-related quality of life and participation

American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Post-acute COVID-19 syndrome negatively impacts physical function, cognitive function, health-related quality of life and participation - by Tabacof, Putrino et al

Abstract
Objective
This report describes persistent symptoms associated with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS), and the impact of these symptoms on physical function, cognitive function, health-related quality of life and participation.

Design
Cross-sectional observational study design. Patients attending Mount Sinai’s PACS Clinic completed surveys containing patient-reported outcomes.

Results
A total of 156 patients completed the survey, at a median (range) time of 351 (82 to 457) days post COVID-19 infection. All patients were pre-vaccination. The most common persistent symptoms reported were fatigue (n = 128, 82%), brain fog (n = 105, 67%) and headache (n = 94, 60%). The most common triggers of symptom exacerbation were physical exertion (n = 134, 86%), stress (n = 107, 69%) and dehydration (n = 77, 49%). Increased levels of fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale) and dyspnea (Medical Research Council) were reported, alongside reductions in levels of regularly completed physical activity. Ninety-eight (63%) patients scored for at least mild cognitive impairment (Neuro-Qol), and the domain of the EQ-5D-5 L most impacted was Self-care, Anxiety/Depression and Usual Activities.

Conclusion
Persistent symptoms associated with PACS appear to impact physical and cognitive function, health-related quality of life and participation in society. More research is needed to further clarify the relationship between COVID-19 infection and PACS symptoms, the underlying mechanisms, and treatment options.

 

Quote from paper:

The pattern of PACS symptoms resembles other post-viral syndromes, including dysautonomia25, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome26 and myalgic encephalomyelitis 27. It is unsurprising that physical exertion was the most common cause of symptom exacerbation, as this is a feature shared by some of these conditions. The potential for the worsening of symptoms following physical exertion is the most important consideration when prescribing rehabilitation therapies for people with PACS.28