A recent University of Utah Health study found that individuals infected with COVID-19 are eight times more likely to develop chronic fatigue syndrome, a condition characterized by prolonged exhaustion and mental fogginess. The research suggests nearly 90% of new cases were linked to symptomatic long COVID.
According to Suzanne D. Vernon, lead author of the study, healthcare providers must recognize and address chronic fatigue syndrome as a treatable condition in post-COVID-19 patients. Early diagnosis and proper management can significantly improve patient outcomes.
Chronic fatigue syndrome is marked by six months or more of extreme exhaustion that worsens with physical or mental activity. The study’s findings indicate a significant surge in cases, with the Bateman Horne Center encouraging healthcare providers to take urgent action.
The condition is often triggered by acute infections like COVID-19 and predominantly affects women. Dr. Rachel Hess hopes this analysis will lead to further studies on the understudied condition, which has been dismissed for too long.
Source: https://www.ksl.com/article/51230663/covid-19-increases-the-risk-of-chronic-fatigue-syndrome-u-health-study-says