Investigating the trajectory of post-COVID impairments: a longitudinal study in Sweden.

JSON

Badinlou F, Abzhandadze T, Rahimian F, Jansson-Fröjmark M, Hedman-Lagerlöf M, Lundgren T

Front Psychol 15 (-) 1402750 [2024-06-10; online 2024-06-10]

Individuals recovering from COVID-19 often experience a range of post-recovery symptoms. However, the literature on post-COVID-19 symptoms reveals conflicting results, necessitating a heightened focus on longitudinal studies to comprehend the trajectory of impairments over time. Our study aimed to investigate changes in long-term impairments among individuals infected with COVID-19 and explore potential predictors influencing these changes. We conducted a web-survey targeting individuals that had been infected with COVID-19 at four time-points: T0 (baseline), T1 (three months), T2 (six months), and T3 (twelve months). The survey included contextual factors, factors related to body functions and structures, and post-COVID impairments. The longitudinal sample included 213 individuals (with a mean age of 48.92 years). Linear mixed models were employed to analyze changes in post-COVID impairments over time and identify impacting factors. Findings revealed a general decline in post-COVID impairments over time, with each symptom exhibiting a dynamic pattern of fluctuations. Factors such as initial infection severity, education level, and work status were significantly associated with the levels of impairments. The study emphasizes that post-COVID impairments are not static but exhibit variations over time. Personalized care, especially for vulnerable populations, is crucial. The results underscore the need for long-term monitoring and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. Targeted support and interventions are highlighted for individuals with severe initial infections and those in socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.

Category: Post-COVID

Type: Journal article

PubMed 38915427

DOI 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1402750

Crossref 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1402750

pmc: PMC11195806