Capacidade funcional e avaliação de fadiga em pacientes com COVID longa

Abstract

Long COVID is defined as the presence of symptoms usually after 3 months of probable or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, with fatigue and muscle weakness being the most frequent symptoms, as well as a decrease in functional capacity. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between functional capacity and anthropometry with levels of mental and physical fatigue in patients with long COVID. The sample consisted of 25 patients aged between 18 and 65, of both sexes, who had symptoms of long COVID, such as: fatigue, tiredness, weakness, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, muscle pain and weakness, psychological and sleep disorders, difficulties with language, reasoning, concentration and memory.. The main findings were the moderate negative correlations between the results of the FAS fatigue questionnaire and the results of the tests: maximum isometric strength of trunk flexion (r=-0.44), maximum isometric strength of trunk extension (r=-0.45). Therefore, there was an inverse relationship between fatigue and the results of the maximum isometric strength tests of flexion and extension of the trunk. Fatigue resulting from COVID-19 infection influences muscle strength, which in turn interferes with the functional capacity of individuals.