18 September 2024 : Review article
Long COVID or Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection (PASC) and the Urgent Need to Identify Diagnostic Biomarkers and Risk Factors
Dinah V. Parums1CDEF*DOI: 10.12659/MSM.946512
Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e946512
Table 2 Current symptomatic treatment approaches for long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) [1,2].
Symptom | Clinical features | Investigations | Management |
---|---|---|---|
Fatigue and post-exertional malaise | Fatigue that is not relieved by rest and is worse following stress or physical activity | History and examination with investigations to exclude treatable causes such as hypothyroidism, iron, B12, and folate deficiency, underlying malignancy, or ongoing chronic infections | Multidisciplinary and individualized 0holistic) symptomatic treatment, including using a diary to record symptom ‘triggers’ with rehabilitation and occupational therapy, if required |
Chest pain and altered breathing patterns (‘COVID squeeze’) | Positional pain and pain on exertion with intermittent chest tightness | History and examination with investigations to exclude treatable causes, including ischemic heart disease, pericarditis, or pulmonary embolism | Multidisciplinary and individualized 0holistic) symptomatic treatment, including using a diary to record symptom ‘triggers’ |
Exertional breathlessness | Shortness of breath associated with even mild physical activity | History and examination with investigations to exclude treatable causes, with lung function tests and lung imaging | Multidisciplinary and individualized 0holistic) symptomatic treatment, including using a diary to record symptom ‘triggers’ |
Palpitations and dizziness (‘COVID-induced autonomic dysfunction’) | Symptoms associated with upright posture (orthostatic intolerance) | History and examination with investigations to exclude treatable causes, including blood pressure measurements and 24-hour ECG monitoring | Multidisciplinary and individualized 0holistic) symptomatic treatment, including using a diary to record symptom ‘triggers’ |
Upper respiratory tract symptoms | Persistent sore throat, voice changes, and choking | History and examination with investigations to exclude treatable causes, including symptoms from gastroesophageal reflux disease and vocal cord pathology | Multidisciplinary and individualized 0holistic) symptomatic treatment, including using a diary to record symptom ‘triggers’ |