Post-Acute COVID-19

Authors

Tiffany A. Towery, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Critical Care and Pulmonology

Advisor

Dr. Tom Colletti, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the current literature and information regarding Post-Acute COVID-19, often referred to as Long COVID, in regard to frequency, most common persisting symptoms, risk factors, and treatment considerations.

Method: A literature search was conducted with search terms post-acute COVID, long COVID, persistent symptoms with COVID, recovery from COVID and pertinent articles were reviewed for analysis.

Results: Multiple studies have described persistent symptoms in approximately 30% of patients up to 6 months after recovery from acute COVID-19 infection. Incidence increases with age, female sex, and with more symptomatic initial infection. The most common persistent symptoms included fatigue, headache, dyspnea, and anosmia though other common symptoms included memory loss, sleep disorders, and PTSD. Treatment should include a multidisciplinary approach focused on return of function and quality of life. More research must be conducted on larger populations and for longer durations of time to most accurately determine how to best serve these patients.

Recommended Citation

Towery TA. Post-Acute COVID-19. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 3(3).