Even after surviving infection with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, people often report symptoms such as persistent fatigue and feelings of weakness. Doctors call this disorder Long Covid or Post-Covid syndrome because the symptoms are persistent.
Cognitive deficits such as concentration or memory problems are also more common after infection. As researchers from the Charité and the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Kiel Campus, show in their latest study, a large proportion of young women are affected by burnout syndrome.
Mental disorders are more likely to occur in men aged 55 years and over, as researchers report in the specialist magazine “eClinicalMedicine”. These findings are based on extensive data from the COVIDOM study, a survey that is part of the National Pandemic Cluster Network (NAPKON).
Chronic fatigue syndrome is currently untreatable. There are currently no drugs that attack the cause. “We first advise patients to avoid such stressful situations and attacks,” says expert Scheibenbogen. Once CFS is diagnosed, patients usually receive further treatment from their family doctor, who can prescribe medication for specific symptoms.
Pain relievers can relieve joint pain or headaches. Relaxation procedures and sedatives can help with sleep disorders, and behavioral therapy allows patients to learn new, beneficial behaviors.
Irritable bowel syndrome and difficulty concentrating can also be treated. “There is also the possibility that the disease will improve over the years and in some cases will even be cured,” said Carmen Scheibebogen.
Those affected are usually advised to manage their energy well in daily life and rest. Often patients also have to adapt their activities to the disease. A regular daily routine with regular meals and appropriate periods of activity and relaxation is recommended.
Practicing relaxation techniques regularly can also help. Many self-help organizations such as Fatigatio e. V. and the Federal Association of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/CFIDS/ME) offer further advice and exchange with other sufferers.
In Germany there is currently only one treatment center dedicated to researching CFS: the Charité Fatigue Center in Berlin, founded in 2018. The center offers continuing education events for doctors and further information for doctors and patients on its website.
