Fatigue in long-COVID; frequency, severity and impact on quality of life

Abstract

Objective: The aim of our study was to investigate the frequency, severity, and impact on quality of life related to fatigue during the prolonged period of COVID-19. Methods: The cross-sectional study consists of data of 266 participants aged 18 and above, all with confirmed diagnoses of COVID-19. Participants' fatigue severity was assessed using the Modified Fa-tigue Impact Scale (mFIS) and their quality of life using the Nothingham Health Profile (NHP). Results: Of the 266 participants, 60 reported no fatigue complaints, 132 experienced fatigue during the acute illness that subsequently resolved and 74 (33.6%) noted persistent fatigue beyond the acute ill-ness period. Participants with fatigue exhibited significantly lower quality of life scores compared to those without, particularly affecting the NHP Pain, Physical Activity, and Energy subscales. The NHP scores positively correlate with mFIS scores. Conclusion: This study revealed that fatigue, which continues during the long-COVID period, impairs the quality of life in relation to its severity. Fatigue was notably associated with a reduced quality of life, particularly evident in the energy sub-dimension. These findings underscore the importance of add-ressing and managing post-COVID fatigue for improved overall well-being.