Kyle B. Enfield, MD, MS, FSHEA, FCCM Associate Professor of Medicine Vice Chair, Quality Improvement and Patient Safety University of Virginia; Associate Chief Medical Officer, Critical Care Department of Medicine University of Virginia Health System Charlottesville, VA
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While definitions of postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), commonly referred to as long COVID, are heterogeneous, it is internationally recognized that some patients have symptoms that persist after recovery from their acute illness.1,2 Most clinicians agree that this disease manifestation begins at around 60 to 90 days after original COVID-19 infection, based on the World Health Organization (WHO) definition.1 Long COVID has similarities to postviral infections seen in SARS, MERS, Ebola, and West Nile virus.1,3 Theories on its potential cause include ongoing inflammation and autoimmunity, among other theories.1,2
Currently, no FDA-approved treatments are available for long COVID and most patients are receiving variable care with off-label use of drugs.1 Multiple clinical trials are in early stages. Certain nonpharmacological approaches have been effective for 2 common lingering long COVID symptoms: exercise intolerance and fatigue.4 These techniques provide patients with tips to help manage decreased energy levels and provide breathing exercises for patients experiencing exercise intolerance.4
Long COVID is a challenge for the medical community, but progress is being made in pinpointing causes, effective treatments, and techniques to help people who continue to have symptoms after having had COVID-19.1,4
