Persistent symptoms among post-COVID-19 survivors: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundSingle studies support the presence of several post-COVID-19 symptoms; however, there is no evidence for the synthesis of symptoms. ObjectiveWe attempt to provide an overview of the persistent symptoms that post-COVID-19 patients encounter, as well as the duration of these symptoms to help them plan their rehabilitation. DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis. ParticipantsA total of 16 studies involving 8756 patients post-COVID-19 were included. MethodsThe CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched from 2019 to August 2021. Observational studies that reported data on post-COVID-19 symptoms were included. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal for Observational Studies. We included medium- to high-quality studies. We used a random-effects model for the meta-analytical pooled prevalence of each post-COVID-19 symptom, and I-2 statistics for heterogeneity. ResultsFrom the 2481 studies identified, 16 met the inclusion criteria. The sample included 7623 hospitalised and 1133 non-hospitalised patients. We found the most prevalent symptoms were fatigue and dyspnea with a pooled prevalence ranging from 42% (27%-58%). Other post-COVID-19 symptoms included sleep disturbance 28% (14%-45%), cough 25% (10%-44%), anosmia/ageusia 24% (7%-47%), fever 21% (4%-47%), myalgia 17% (2%-41%), chest pain 11% (5%-20%), and headache 9% (2%-20%). In addition to physical symptoms, anxiety/depression was also prevalent 27% (8%-53%). ConclusionsFatigue and dyspnea were the most prevalent post-COVID-19 symptoms and experienced up to 12 months. Relevance to clinical practiceMultiple persistent symptoms are still experienced until 12 months of post-Covid 19. This meta-analysis should provide some awareness to nurses to highlights the unmet healthcare needs of post-COVID-19 patients. Long-term monitoring for the evaluation and treatment of symptoms and conditions and rehabilitation programs should be conducted.

Automated summary

This study provides an overview of the persistent symptoms experienced by post-COVID-19 patients, with a focus on fatigue and dyspnea, which are the most prevalent symptoms. The study found that these symptoms can last up to 12 months. In addition to physical symptoms, anxiety and depression were also commonly reported. The findings emphasize the importance of providing long-term monitoring, evaluation, and rehabilitation programs for post-COVID-19 patients.