Dr Pramod N Sulikeri, PhD
If you are out of hospital after a Covid-19 infection, you should not neglect your health. You need to carefully assess how your body behaves. Can you match all the activities that you were performing pre-covid? This needs to be observed cautiously.
Although Covid-19 predominantly affects the respiratory system, evidence indicates a multisystem disease which severely impairs multi-organs. After discharge from hospital or home isolation, if you experience even the slightest of discomfort in your body function, do not neglect it. Instead, immediately seek medical advice.
Long-term sequelae of Covid-19 infection are unknown, but evidence from previous Covid outbreaks demonstrates decreased pulmonary (lung) and physical function, reduced quality of life and emotional distress.
Many Covid-19 survivors who were admitted in critical care units may develop psychological, physical and cognitive impairments. Most post Covid-19 patients discharged from hospital will require follow-up and supportive care.
Symptoms to look out for
• Dyspnoea (difficulty breathing)
• Shortness of breath even with minimal activities
• Chest discomfort, abnormal heart rate/palpitation
• Frequent cough
• Loss of appetite, abdomen pain, irregular bowel movements and vomitting
• Fatigue, head ache, neurological conditions
• Loss of sleep
• Mood disturbances
• Variations in blood pressure and sugar levels
• Oxygen saturation
During early post-Covid evaluation, if required physiotherapy rehabilitation protocol is proposed according to the baseline conditions of the patients.
Rehabilitation is patient-centred and tailored to individual patient needs. However, keep in mind that any rehabilitation programme should take into account comorbidities that may affect a patient’s progress or ability to take part in a programme.
Medical rehabilitation recommendations
Post Covid-19 medical examination should be considered in all patients. Your physician will advise ECG, X-ray, blood investigations. Post-acute assessment should also include a full medical history, examination and medication including light exercise and diet.
Post-covid syndrome will pass away
Post-covid syndrome is transient in nature and will pass away with medical treatment, exercise, good diet and rest and the body will heal itself by maintaining a positive outlook.
(The writer is transplant coordinator, KLES Dr Prabhakar Kore Hospital and MRC, Belagavi)
