Post-COVID-19 Syndrome is a heterogeneous condition that develops in patients with a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. The spectrum of symptoms and sequelae after acute COVID-19 is broad and variable. Currently, more than 100 symptoms have been reported in individuals with this condition, all sharing an unfavorable impact on quality of life, physical and/or mental activity, vitality, or resilience of affected individuals. The aim of this study is to describe the main symptoms reported by patients with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome and to follow patients for a period of twelve months and their clinical evolution. Patients diagnosed with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome of both sexes and aged 18 years or older were selected to participate. Clinical and laboratory follow-up of study participants was performed for one year. Routine tests included biochemical measurements, lipid fractions, blood glucose, and a complete blood count. A total of 250 patients with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome participated, 65% women and 35% men. Regarding vaccination, 65% received at least 2 to 3 vaccine doses. Overall, the ten most frequently reported symptoms were: fatigue (39%), post-exertional malaise (35%), sleep disturbance (25%), shortness of breath (20%), anxiety and depression (25%), brain fog/confusion (20%), loss of concentration (24%), altered smell (11%), persistent cough (100%), and muscle pain (10%). Among study participants, 40% had persistent symptoms for at least 3 months, 35% for up to 6 months, and 25% remained symptomatic even after 12 months of follow-up. Laboratory analysis showed increased blood glucose and lipid levels, with higher LDL and reduced HDL. No hematologic abnormalities were observed. Post-COVID-19 Syndrome represents one of the most intriguing knowledge gaps to be elucidated by the scientific community, and many questions still need to be answered.
Martins et al. (2026) studied this question.