Impact of post-exertional malaise frequency and fatigue in Long COVID patients on health-related quality of life

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of post-exertional malaise (PEM) frequency and PEM severity on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among individuals with Long COVID. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey including adults in Germany with self-reported Long COVID and PEM. Fatigue severity was assessed with the Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), and HRQoL was measured using the EQ-5D-3L (descriptive index and visual analogue scale [EQ-VAS]). Associations between PEM frequency, fatigue, and HRQoL were examined using correlations and non-parametric group comparisons. Multiple linear regression models were fitted to predict HRQoL while controlling for age, sex, employment status, and subjective social status. Results: Higher PEM frequency was associated with significantly lower EQ-5D index scores (ρ = − 0.32, p