When infected by SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, many people do not have any symptoms. When the infection causes symptoms, these usually resolve within about 4 weeks. However, in some patients, symptoms associated with COVID-19 persist even after the resolution of the acute infection. This condition is called long COVID or post-COVID syndrome when symptoms persist beyond 12 weeks. The most common symptoms of post-COVID syndrome are: Fatigue; Muscle weakness; Shortness of breathe; Joint pain. However, many other symptoms can also remain, for example: Chest pain; Sleep disorders; Depressed mood; Palpitations. In people who have had COVID-19, regardless of its severity, and continue to feel ill, symptoms may be related to SARS-CoV-2 infection and they should seek for medical advice . In their evaluation, the doctor will ask questions about present symptoms and past illnesses and will order the necessary medical tests to study the problem and identify the cause of the symptoms. For the most common symptoms and when there is an impact on physical capacity or performance for daily living activities , Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is a medical specialty that will have an important intervention for recovery. The physiatrist will assess the problem and advise on the care and treatment needed to manage or treat the condition; This care can range from monitoring and care at home to the integration into a structured and individualized respiratory rehabilitation program. Benefits of post-COVID rehabilitation Although COVID-19 is a recent disease, there is already evidence that a respiratory rehabilitation program is beneficial for functional recovery of post-COVID syndrome patients . For this, dedicated specialties consultations and programs have emerged in post-Covid rehabilitation. These programs have a multidisciplinary scope and a comprehensive intervention; Are supported by various medical specialties and other health professionals; Include individualized therapies aimed at optimizing physical and psychosocial performance, as well as promoting adherence to a healthy lifestyle. Most often, treatments are based on a physical exercise plan , usually 2 to 3 months in duration, and include an initial assessment supported by questionnaires and physical tests, which are then compared with the final assessment to measure objective gains. Where appropriate, they are complemented with respiratory kinesitherapy, physiotherapy, psychological support sessions or nutritional programs. Remember that If you have had COVID-19 and are still feeling ill you should get help; Even people who have had a less severe illness can benefit from intervention to improve their physical ability. Keeping physically active is essential to have a complete participation of personal and socio-professional life. Author : Carlos Jorge Rodrigues Meet the physical medicine and rehabilitation team from Hospital da Luz network and book your consultation. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
