Scholars Bulletin (SB)
Volume-10 | Issue-09 | 231-237
Subject Category: Family Medicine
Residual Symptoms of Moderate COVID-19 Cases after 3 Months of Diagnosis in Al Badaa and Al Khawaneej Fever Clinics in Dubai Health Authority
Nermeen Awad Alkarim Nurredeen Saleh, Ola Abdulsamea Aldafrawy, Darine Helmy Saad, Fawzia Ahmed Mohamed Abdouli, Shamsa Mohammad Abdulla Saif Al Suwaidi, Amani Salem Abdul Kader AlZubaidi, Badr Mahmoud Hassan Elshamy
Published : Nov. 16, 2024
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted health, social life, and economies, with effects that are still unfolding globally. While much research has been devoted to understanding the acute phase of the virus, there’s limited insight into the lingering symptoms that can affect people’s well-being long after initial recovery, particularly in cases with moderate severity. Recognizing and addressing these persistent issues is essential to fully support patient recovery. Objective: This study focuses on understanding the residual symptoms experienced by patients three months after a moderate COVID-19 diagnosis. The study is centered on individuals who sought care at Dubai Health Authority’s Fever Clinics in Al Badaa and Al Khawaneej, aiming to pinpoint symptom patterns and provide insights into patient recovery trajectories. Methods: In this retrospective study, we analyzed records from 394 individuals diagnosed with moderate COVID-19 between June and December 2020. To qualify for inclusion, patients needed a confirmed moderate diagnosis, characterized by a fever above 38°C or mild-to-moderate pneumonia as observed in chest X-rays. Patients completed an 18-question survey about lingering symptoms, and data were analyzed using Chi-square and T-tests to assess patterns across different demographics and clinical characteristics, with p < 0.05 as the threshold for significance. Results: Out of the 394 participants (68% male, 32% female), 22.1% reported ongoing symptoms three months after their initial diagnosis. The most frequently cited issues were body pain (24.1%), sleep disturbances such as insomnia (21.8%), breathing difficulties (dyspnea) and fatigue (both 20.7%), and feelings of anxiety (19.5%). These symptoms were more common among patients aged 31-49 and those with chronic conditions, especially hypertension, highlighting specific groups that may require additional post-recovery support. Conclusion: Persistent symptoms are common among individuals recovering from moderate COVID-19 infections, varying according to age, existing health conditions, and marital status. Screening and targeted support measures may help address these lingering effects, aiding recovery and quality of life for affected individuals.