Beyond recovery: post COVID-19 complications

Yennam Sushanth Reddy; Kambhampati Sailaja; Yeluri Manasa

doi:10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20262174

Authors

Yennam Sushanth Reddy Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Mediciti Institute of Medical Sciences, Ghanpur, Medchal, Telangana, India
Kambhampati Sailaja Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Mediciti Institute of Medical Sciences, Ghanpur, Medchal, Telangana, India
Yeluri Manasa Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Mediciti Institute of Medical Sciences, Ghanpur, Medchal, Telangana, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20262174

Keywords:

Age, Post COVID fibrosis, Smoking, Vaccination

Abstract

Background: Although most patients recover from the acute phase of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a substantial proportion continue to experience persistent symptoms and organ-specific complications, collectively referred to as post COVID-19 syndrome (PCS). These manifestations like pulmonary fibrosis emerging as a significant long-term concern, particularly among those with moderate to severe illness. Data on the prevalence, spectrum, and risk factors of post-COVID complications from the Indian subcontinent remain limited.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted at the department of pulmonary medicine, Mediciti Institute of Medical Sciences, involving 100 patients who recovered from acute COVID-19. Data collection included assessments at 1, 3, and 6 months post-recovery, using the WHO Global COVID-19 Clinical Platform Case Report Form. HRCT chest scans and relevant investigations were performed, with statistical analysis conducted using SPSS version 26.

Results: 68% of participants developed PCS, with higher incidence among older patients (>60 years, 57.3%) and females (44.1%). Complications observed were pulmonary fibrosis (26.4%), deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary thromboembolism (2.9%), heart failure (2.9%), tuberculosis (1.4%), and pneumothorax (1.4%). Significant associations were found between PCS and factors such as age, sex, smoking, severity of COVID-19, admission status, and vaccination status (p<0.05).

Conclusions: PCS is prevalent among recovered COVID-19 patients, especially older adults, females, smokers, and those with severe illness. Vaccination appears to have a protective role. Long-term follow-up and comprehensive rehabilitation programs are essential for managing PCS, particularly for high-risk groups.

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