Impact of Fatigue on Quality of Life among COVID-19 Survivors

Abstract

Background: COVID‐19 is a truly multisystem disease, with common extra‐respiratory complications affecting the cardiac, renal, gastrointestinal, nervous, endocrine and musculoskeletal systems. Fatigue is a common symptom in those presenting with symptomatic COVID-19 infection. However, it is unknown if COVID-19 results in persistent fatigue in those recovered from acute infection. There is currently very limited information on the nature and occurrence of post‐COVID‐19 symptoms after hospital discharge and its impact on quality of life. This study aims to assess those recovering from COVID-19 for symptoms of fatigue and its impact on quality of life, thus identifying a group worthy of further study and early intervention. Objective: To determine the impact of fatigue on quality of life among COVID-19 survivors. Methods: 99 patients exposed with covid-19 virus and tested negative before 6 weeks was followed up and assessed for severity of fatigue and its impact on quality of life. Participants were asked on a telephone to choose an appropriate option for each question in relation to current situation from the Chalder fatigue scale and COV19 quality of life questionnaire in COVID 19 survivors. Result: Participants with mean age of 32.6±11.28 years and majority between 23-27 years were included. In this present study males were affected more than females. Total 67 participants experienced fatigue out of which 47 had an impact on their quality of life. A chi square test of independence was performed to determine the impact of fatigue on quality of life in COVID19 survivors. Impact of fatigue on quality of life was statistically significant, [X2(1, N=99) = 6.14, p= 0.013] with small effect size of 0.249. Conclusion: Present study concludes that, there was a significant impact of fatigue on the quality of life. Hence, the fatigue and its associated symptoms need to be monitored and early intervention to be planned in post COVID19 patients. Home exercises and cognitive therapy can be taught to improve the capacity and quality of life. Keywords: COVID-19, Fatigue Level, Chalder Fatigue Scale, quality of life.