Rehabilitation Journey of a COVID-19 Survivor from Hospitalization to Follow-up: A Case Report of Progressive Lung Fibrosis

Abstract

Progressive lung fibrosis, an enduring complication of COVID-19, affects lung function adversely, fatigue levels, exercise tolerance, and health-related quality of life, affecting more than 50% of the confirmed cases. Furthermore, the number of post-COVID survivors is steadily increasing, stipulating a need for early, safe, and effective post-COVID pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). A 62-year-old male diagnosed with viral pneumonitis with severe lung fibrosis post-COVID infection exhibited severe exercise intolerance during hospitalization. An 8-week supervised, structured PR program led to early weaning from oxygen support and improved patient’s functional outcomes. Amelioration in the patient’s clinical status was demonstrated by a 50% reduction in his fatigue levels and a three-fold change in his functional capacity. This case study highlights the importance of early initiation of PR in optimizing patient’s health status and reducing any further functional limitations.