Functioning of patients with post-COVID syndrome — preliminary data

Abstract

Introduction: Post-COVID syndrome is a common finding during the first year after SARS-CoV-2 infection affecting the daily living of many patients.The aim of this study was to assess the functioning of patients with post-COVID syndrome.Material and methods: A self-reported questionnaire -the Functioning in Chronic Illness Scale (FCIS)-was applied in 79 (30 women, 49 men) patients (mean age of 62.7 ± 13.6 years), suffering from post-COVID syndrome 5.8 ± 2.3 months after discharge from hospital.Results: The mean FCIS score was 86.2 ± 12.8 points, corresponding to medium functioning level. The mean score in the first, second and third subscale was 27.0 ± 6.4; 27.5 ± 3.7; and 31.7 ± 4.3 points respectively. Better functioning was observed in men vs women: the FCIS score 88.59 ± 10.95 vs 82.20 ± 14.71; p = 0.02 and in the youngest patients: first (< 59 years) vs second (59-67 years) vs third tercile (> 67 years): FCIS score 92.76 ± 14.84 vs 83.15 ± 11.64 vs 83.07 ± 9.68; p = 0.01). The amount of time from COVID-19-related hospitalisation did not affect the FCIS score. Conclusion:Symptoms of post-COVID syndrome influencing patients' functioning persist within the first year regardless of the time elapsing from the disease. Men and younger patients demonstrate better functioning abilities.

The occurrence of cardiovascular risk factors and functioning in chronic illness in the Polish population of EUROASPIRE V

“…The FCIS is currently being used in the ELECTRA-SIRIO2 study -an ongoing large-scale clinical trial scheduled to enroll a total of 4500 acute coronary syndrome patients [37,38]. The proportion of patients with high FCIS score in our current study (64.5%) is noticeably higher than in our previous studies with CAD patients (31%) [35] and post-COVID patients (30%) [36]. We have shown that lack of regular physical activity (the strongest factor), tobacco smoking, abdominal obesity, and increased blood pressure deteriorate the functioning of patients.…”

“…We have also demonstrated that an FCIS total score of 97-98 points is the cut-off for high and very high cardiovascular risk irrespective of whether it is assessed with the SCORE or the number of uncontrolled risk factors. The FCIS questionnaire was previously applied in patients with CAD [35] and in subjects with post-COVID syndrome [36]. The FCIS is currently being used in the ELECTRA-SIRIO2 study -an ongoing large-scale clinical trial scheduled to enroll a total of 4500 acute coronary syndrome patients [37,38].…”

Post-COVID-19 rehabilitation (PCR-SIRIO 8) study. A rationale and protocol of the study

“…Following recommendations contained in both documents we developed a patient-centred and tailored to individual patient's needs rehabilitation program. Taking into account physical, cognitive and psychological issues related to the post-COVID-19 syndrome a holistic approach to managing these issues was planned [15]. In line with our previous experience education of patients is a key part in our rehabilitation programs [20,27,28].…”

“…A substantial proportion of the COVID-19 survivors develop symptoms of the post COVID-19 syndrome during their convalescence [15]. In order to return to normal life, work and routine activities, post-COVID-19 convalescents need support both in the physical and mental spheres.…”

COVID-19 and its collateral damage

“…Many COVID-19 survivors suffer from multiple and persisting symptoms including: fatigue, dyspnoe, anosmia, cognitive impairment, and psychological distress defined as the post-COVID syndrome. Kubica et al [4] have evaluated 79 patients with post-COVID syndrome using the Functioning in Chronic Illness Scale (FCIS). The mean FCIS score was 86.2 ± 12.8 meaning medium functioning level.…”