More than a million people are already suffering from the persistent covid in our country. That is, “a set of multi-organ symptoms not attributable to other causes that last after the acute phase of infection”. They usually last three months or more after overcoming the disease. and a new study published in the journal Nature Medicine found that patients reported 62 symptoms significantly more often 12 weeks after initial infection than those who had not contracted the virus. We tell you what they are.
Scientists have classified the symptoms into three categories respiratory symptoms, mental and cognitive health issues, and then a broader range of symptoms. The most repeated so far were anosmia, ie loss of taste and smell, breathing difficulties and fever. However, the study now shows others that are also common. are among the most common amnesia or memory loss, apraxia or inability to perform familiar movements or commands, fecal incontinence, erectile dysfunctionloss or loss of hair, hallucinations or swelling of the extremities.
“This research validates what patients have been telling physicians and policy makers throughout the pandemic: that persistent symptoms of COVID-19 are extremely broad and cannot be fully explained by other factors, such as lifestyle risk factors or chronic health conditions“says Shamil Haroon, professor of public health at the University of Birmingham and lead author of the paper.
The research also revealed who are most susceptible to these bothersome symptoms. The study suggests that women, young people and people belonging to a black or mixed ethnic group are at increased risk of developing persistent covid-19. In addition, people with fewer resources, smokers and overweight or obese peopleas well as those with a wide range of illnesses, are more likely to report persistent symptoms.
This study is essential for create and add more value to understanding the complexity and pathology of prolonged covid. It highlights the degree and diversity of symptoms between different groups. Patients with pre-existing conditions will also appreciate the additional analysis on risk factorsconcludes Jennifer Camaradou, co-author of the research.