Researchers Suggests That Long-COVID Could Be Because Of A Person’s Physical Inactivity

Brazilian researchers recently looked into the relationship between the post-acute sequelae of the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) (PASC) and physical inactivity.

Their findings were published in the Scientific Reports journal.

Photo via UK Parliament

Infections with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have caused havoc around the world, leading to critical disease outcomes and hospitalisations. 

The high prevalence of PASC symptoms among COVID-19 survivors has been the subject of studies and has placed a strain on health systems around the world.

People who have a history of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are said to have this condition, which is known as "long COVID." 

Physical inactivity has been linked by researchers as an independent risk factor to poor functional status, anxiety and depressive disorders, musculoskeletal problems, and all-cause mortality.

It has since been critical to recognize any PASC-related risk factors that COVID-19 survivors may experience as a result of physical inactivity.

According to the findings, 51% of patients with physical inactivity reported no symptoms, 62% reported at least one, 58% had between one and four, and 71% had five or more symptoms associated with PASC.

Meanwhile, 77% of physically inactive patients had dyspnea, 69% had fatigue, 66% had severe joint/muscle pain, 66% had insomnia, 65% had post-traumatic stress disorder, 65% had anxiety, 62% had depression, 65% had loss of taste, and 63% had loss of smell.

The findings of the study revealed that PASC was significantly associated with physical inactivity.

Given the potential impact of physical inactivity on overall mortality and morbidity, the researchers believe that the healthcare system, medical professionals, and policymakers should prioritize COVID-19-related physical inactivity treatment.

Please stay safe, guys and get yourself vaccinated if you haven't!