1
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Ribeiro J, Caldeira D, Dores H. Long-term manifestations of COVID-19 in athletes: a narrative review. PHYSICIAN SPORTSMED 2024:1-8. [PMID: 38375735 DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2024.2321629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long COVID is a condition where symptoms or complications persist beyond 3 months after COVID-19 infection. Although most athletes experience mild symptoms, those involved in sports with higher cardiovascular demands can develop long COVID, which can negatively impact sports performance. This narrative review aimed to analyze the long COVID in athletes, especially cardiovascular effects; to alert medical and sporting community for the clinical aftermaths of COVID-19, focusing on physical activity; and to discuss the potential return-to-play strategies for these athletes. METHODS An electronic search in PubMed database for articles published between January/2020 and February/2023 was performed including athletic populations with COVID-19, emphasizing long-term complications, especially the cardiovascular effects. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS While severe cardiac complications are rare, athletes with long COVID often experience symptoms such as fatigue, dyspnea, palpitations, and exercise intolerance. To manage athletes with long COVID, individualized and structured return-to-play programs with the involvement of multidisciplinary teams are crucial. This underscores the importance of recognizing long COVID in athletes, raising awareness of its potential impacts, and implementing strategies to ensure a safe return to play.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Ribeiro
- Faculdade de Medicina da, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Daniel Caldeira
- Serviço de Cardiologia, Hospital Universitário de Santa Maria - CHULN, Lisbon, Portugal
- Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Therapeutics Unit, Centro Cardiovascular da Universidade de Lisboa (CCUL@RISE), CEMBE, CAML, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculdade de Medicina da, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Hélder Dores
- Hospital da Luz Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- CHRC, NOVA Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
- Pathophysiology Department, NOVA Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
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2
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Edward JA, Peruri A, Rudofker E, Shamapant N, Parker H, Cotter R, Sabin K, Lawley J, Cornwell WK. Characteristics and Treatment of Exercise Intolerance in Patients With Long COVID. J Cardiopulm Rehabil Prev 2023; 43:400-406. [PMID: 37646620 DOI: 10.1097/hcr.0000000000000821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The post-acute sequalae of SARS-CoV-2, also known as "Long COVID," is characterized by profound fatigue, impaired functional capacity with post-exertional malaise, orthostatic intolerance, and tachycardia. At least 25-30% of individuals impacted by SARS-CoV-2 will go on to experience the Long COVID syndrome, underscoring the detrimental impact this condition has on society. Although efforts are underway to further understand risk factors for Long COVID and identify strategies to prevent disease development entirely, implementation of treatment strategies is warranted to alleviate symptom burden among those affected. This review provides a rationale for exercise prescriptions tailored to the Long COVID patient based on the pathophysiology underlying this syndrome, as well as the previously demonstrated benefits of exercise training in other similar populations whose clinical manifestations result from cardiac deconditioning. Herein, we discuss methods to tailor exercise protocols, accommodating exercise intolerance and post-exertional malaise that may otherwise limit the ability to participate in a training protocol, as well as data demonstrating that a focused exercise prescription may effectively alleviate symptom burden in these patients. Long COVID results, in large part, from deconditioning, which may result from as little as 20 hr of inactivity. Exercise prescriptions tailored to patients with Long COVID may effectively alleviate symptom burden associated with this condition and in the absence of overt contraindications should be considered in management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin A Edward
- Department of Medicine-Cardiology (Drs Edward, Rudofker, Shamapant, Parker, Cotter, and Cornwell and Ms Sabin) and Clinical Translational Research Center (Dr Cornwell), University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora; Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Parkview Medical Center, Pueblo, Colorado (Dr Peruri); and Department of Sport Science, Division of Physiology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria (Dr Lawley)
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3
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AlSamhori JF, Alshrouf MA, AlSamhori ARF, Alshadeedi FM, Madi AS, Alzoubi O. Implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on athletes, sports events, and mass gathering events: Review and recommendations. SPORTS MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2023; 5:165-173. [PMID: 37753427 PMCID: PMC10518794 DOI: 10.1016/j.smhs.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), which caused several respiratory diseases, was formally declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020, it affected the lifestyle and health of athletes, both directly through cardiorespiratory and other health related effects, and indirectly as the pandemic has forced the suspension, postponement, or cancellation of most professional sporting events around the world. In this review, we explore the journey of athletes throughout the pandemic and during their return to their competitive routine. We also highlight potential pitfalls during the process and summarize the recommendations for the optimal return to sport participation. We further discuss the impact of the pandemic on the psychology of athletes, the variance between the team and individual athletes, and their ability to cope with the changes. Moreover, we specifically reviewed the pandemic impact on younger professional athletes in terms of mental and fitness health. Finally, we shaded light on the various impacts of mass gathering events and recommendations for managing upcoming events.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Ali Alshrouf
- Medical Internship, Jordan University Hospital, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
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4
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Sick J, König D. Exercise Training in Non-Hospitalized Patients with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome-A Narrative Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2277. [PMID: 37628475 PMCID: PMC10454172 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11162277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Post COVID-19 Syndrome (PCS) is the persistence of symptoms after an infection with SARS-CoV-2 in both hospitalized and non-hospitalized COVID-19 survivors. Exercise was proposed as a rehabilitation measure for PCS and early studies focused on patients post-hospital discharge. The objective of this review is to summarize the results of trials investigating exercise interventions in non-hospitalized subjects with PCS and propose practical recommendations concerning safe exercise programming. A literature search in the databases MEDLINE and Scopus was conducted until 26 July 2023 and resulted in seven studies that met the criteria. In total, 935 subjects with PCS were investigated. Exercise enhanced aerobic fitness and physical function and relieved symptoms of dyspnea, fatigue and depression. Participants reported lower Post COVID-19 Functional Status scores post-intervention. The exercise programs were well tolerated with no adverse events. To ensure safety, medical examinations should take place in advance and there should be a regular evaluation of the individual responses to the training. Caution is advised when working with patients suffering from post-exertional malaise or diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. There is a growing need for additional randomized controlled trials to investigate the effectiveness and safety of exercise in individuals with PCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Sick
- Department of Sport Science, Centre for Sports Science and University Sports, University of Vienna, 1150 Vienna, Austria;
- Vienna Doctoral School of Pharmaceutical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel König
- Department of Sport Science, Centre for Sports Science and University Sports, University of Vienna, 1150 Vienna, Austria;
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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5
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Rabady S, Hoffmann K, Aigner M, Altenberger J, Brose M, Costa U, Denk-Linnert DM, Gruber S, Götzinger F, Helbok R, Hüfner K, Koczulla R, Kurz K, Lamprecht B, Leis S, Löffler J, Müller CA, Rittmannsberger H, Rommer PS, Sator P, Strenger V, Struhal W, Untersmayr E, Vonbank K, Wancata J, Weber T, Wendler M, Zwick RH. [S1 guidelines for the management of postviral conditions using the example of post-COVID-19]. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2023; 135:525-598. [PMID: 37555900 PMCID: PMC10504206 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-023-02242-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
These S1 guidelines are an updated and expanded version of the S1 guidelines on long COVID differential diagnostic and management strategies. They summarize the state of knowledge on postviral conditions like long/post COVID at the time of writing. Due to the dynamic nature of knowledge development, they are intended to be "living guidelines". The focus is on practical applicability at the level of primary care, which is understood to be the appropriate place for initial access and for primary care and treatment. The guidelines provide recommendations on the course of treatment, differential diagnostics of the most common symptoms that can result from infections like with SARS-CoV-2, treatment options, patient management and care, reintegration and rehabilitation. The guidelines have been developed through an interdisciplinary and interprofessional process and provide recommendations on interfaces and possibilities for collaboration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Rabady
- Department Allgemeine Gesundheitsstudien, Kompetenzzentrum für Allgemein- und Familienmedizin, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Str. 30, 3500, Krems, Österreich.
| | - Kathryn Hoffmann
- Leiterin der Abteilung Primary Care Medicine, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Martin Aigner
- Abteilung für Psychiatrie und psychotherapeutische Medizin, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Str. 30, 3500, Krems, Österreich
| | - Johann Altenberger
- Pensionsversicherungsanstalt, Rehabilitationszentrum Großgmain, Salzburger Str. 520, 5084, Großgmain, Österreich
| | - Markus Brose
- Department Allgemeine Gesundheitsstudien, Kompetenzzentrum für Allgemein- und Familienmedizin, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Str. 30, 3500, Krems, Österreich
| | - Ursula Costa
- Ergotherapie und Handlungswissenschaft, fhg - Zentrum für Gesundheitsberufe Tirol GmbH/fh, Innrain 98, 6020, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Doris-Maria Denk-Linnert
- Klinische Abteilung für Allgemeine Hals‑, Nasen- und Ohrenkrankheiten, Klin. Abteilung Phoniatrie-Logopädie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Samuel Gruber
- Department Allgemeine Gesundheitsstudien, Kompetenzzentrum für Allgemein- und Familienmedizin, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Str. 30, 3500, Krems, Österreich
| | - Florian Götzinger
- Abteilung für Kinderheilkunde, Klinik Ottakring, Montleartstr. 37, 1160, Wien, Österreich
| | - Raimund Helbok
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Johannes Kepler Universität Linz, Standort Neuromed Campus & Med Campus Kepler Universitätsklinikum GmbH, 4020, Linz, Österreich
| | - Katharina Hüfner
- Dep. für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie, Psychosomatik und Medizinische Psychologie, Universitätsklinik für Psychiatrie II, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Rembert Koczulla
- Fachbereich Medizin, Klinik für Pneumologie Marburg, Baldingerstr., 35035, Marburg, Deutschland
| | - Katharina Kurz
- Innere Medizin II, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Bernd Lamprecht
- Universitätsklinik für Innere Medizin mit Schwerpunkt Pneumologie, Kepler Universitätsklinikum, 4020, Linz, Österreich
| | - Stefan Leis
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie der PMU, MME Universitätsklinikum Salzburg Christian-Doppler-Klinik, Ignaz-Harrer-Str. 79, 5020, Salzburg, Österreich
| | - Judith Löffler
- Innere Medizin II, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Österreich
| | - Christian A Müller
- Klinische Abteilung für Allgemeine Hals‑, Nasen- und Ohrenkrankheiten, Klin. Abteilung für Allgemeine HNO, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | | | - Paulus S Rommer
- Universitätsklinik für Neurologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Paul Sator
- Dermatologische Abteilung, Klinik Hietzing, Wolkersbergenstr. 1, 1130, Wien, Österreich
| | - Volker Strenger
- Klinische Abteilung für Allgemeinpädiatrie, Universitätsklinik für Kinder- und Jugendheilkunde, Medizinische Universität Graz, 8036, Graz, Österreich
| | - Walter Struhal
- Klinische Abteilung für Neurologie, Universitätsklinikum Tulln, Karl Landsteiner Privatuniversität für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Alter Ziegelweg 10, 3430, Tulln an der Donau, Österreich
| | - Eva Untersmayr
- Institut für Pathophysiologie und Allergieforschung Zentrum für Pathophysiologie, Infektiologie und Immunologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Karin Vonbank
- Klinische Abteilung für Pulmologie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Johannes Wancata
- Klinische Abteilung für Sozialpsychiatrie, Medizinische Universität Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Wien, Österreich
| | - Thomas Weber
- Kardiologische Abteilung Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen, Grieskirchnerstr. 42, 4600, Wels, Österreich
| | | | - Ralf-Harun Zwick
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rehabilitation Research, Kurbadstr. 14, 1100, Wien, Österreich
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6
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Tan C, Wang J, Cao G, He Y, Yin J, Chu Y, Geng Z, Li L, Qiu J. Psychological changes in athletes infected with Omicron after return to training: fatigue, sleep, and mood. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15580. [PMID: 37337583 PMCID: PMC10276985 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This study aims to analyze the changes of approximately 1 month in fatigue, sleep, and mood in athletes after returning to training following infection with the COVID-19 Omicron strain and provide recommendations for returning to training after infection. Methods Two hundred and thirty professional athletes who had returned to training after being infected with COVID-19 in December 2022 were recruited to participate in three tests conducted from early January 2023. The second test was completed approximately 1 week after the first, and the third was completed about 2 weeks after the second. Each test consisted of completing scales and the exercise-induced fatigue measure. The scales included a visual analog scale, the Athens Insomnia Scale for non-clinical application, and the Depression-Anxiety-Stress scale. The exercise task was a six-minute stair climb test, and athletes evaluated subjective fatigue levels before and after exercise using another Visual Analog Scale and the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale. Results After returning to training, athletes' physical fatigue decreased initially but increased as training progressed. Cognitive fatigue did not change significantly. The exercise task led to elevated levels of physical fatigue after a longer duration of training. Sleep quality problems decreased rapidly after the start of training but remained stable with prolonged training. Depression levels continued to decline, while anxiety levels only reduced after a longer duration of training. Stress levels decreased rapidly after the start of training but did not change with prolonged training. Conclusion Athletes who return to training after recovering from COVID-19 experience positive effects on their fatigue, sleep, and mood. It is important to prioritize anxiety assessment and interventions during the short period after returning and to continue monitoring fatigue levels and implementing recovery interventions over a longer period of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenhao Tan
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Jinhao Wang
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Guohuan Cao
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Yelei He
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Yin
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | - Yudan Chu
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
| | | | - Longji Li
- Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Qiu
- Shanghai Research Institute of Sports Science (Shanghai Anti-Doping Agency), Shanghai, China
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7
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Thirupathi A, Yong W, Oflaz O, Agascioglu E, Gu Y. Exercise and COVID-19: exercise intensity reassures immunological benefits of post-COVID-19 condition. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1036925. [PMID: 37275224 PMCID: PMC10233405 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1036925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Any form of physical activity, including exercise, has various benefits at the physiological (improving cardiac and respiratory functions, increasing skeletal muscle mass, and maintaining homeostasis) and psychological levels (improving cognitive function, reducing anxiety and depression) which help to combat any type of infection. In contrast, the infectivity ratio could reduce the physical activity of an individual, such as performing a habitual exercise. Adaptation to different exercise strategies including intensity and duration may better increase physical performance and improve the symptoms. For example, low to moderate intensity perhaps fails to induce this adaptive process, while high-intensity of exercise compromises immune health. This can aggravate the infection rate (Open window theory). However, high intensity with a shorter time produces various morphological alterations in the primary organs including the lungs and heart, which facilitate life support in COVID-19 patients. However, less information about exercise protocols failed to assure the benefits of exercise to COVID-19 patients, particularly post-COVID-19 conditions. Therefore, this review will answer how exercise intensity is crucial to reassure the exercise benefits for promoting safe participation before infection and post-COVID-19 conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Thirupathi
- Research Academy of Medicine Combining Sports, Ningbo No 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Wang Yong
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ofcan Oflaz
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Eda Agascioglu
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Yaodong Gu
- Research Academy of Medicine Combining Sports, Ningbo No 2 Hospital, Ningbo, China
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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8
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Tranchita E, Cafiero G, Giordano U, Gentili F, Parisi A, Pierri C, Carducci FIC, Drago F, Turchetta A. Re-evaluation After 2 Years of COVID-19 Pandemic: Return to Play in Pediatric Population: What's New? Int J Sports Med 2023. [PMID: 36257599 DOI: 10.1055/a-1962-7869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
An observational retrospective study was conducted on 180 young competitive athletes. These children were revaluated after a mild/moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection through 3 different kind of protocol aimed at recognizing any cardiorespiratory complications due to the infection. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the results of "return to play" Italian protocols for readmission to competitive sport in the pediatric population. All of the subjects analyzed were readmitted to competitive sports after revaluation. None of the young athletes showed cardiorespiratory compromises at first and/or second level evaluation, confirming that in young population there is low risk of hospitalization and life-threatening complications after a mild/moderate infection. Italian simplified protocol for resuming sport have proved to be a valuable tool for health assessment both in adult and young athletes allowing them to resume their training in safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana Tranchita
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology and Heart Lung Transplant, Division of Sports Medicine, Bambino Gesu Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Cafiero
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology and Heart Lung Transplant, Division of Sports Medicine, Bambino Gesu Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Ugo Giordano
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology and Heart Lung Transplant, Division of Sports Medicine, Bambino Gesu Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Gentili
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology and Heart Lung Transplant, Division of Sports Medicine, Bambino Gesu Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Attilio Parisi
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome 'Foro Italico', Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Pierri
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology and Heart Lung Transplant, Bambino Gesu Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Drago
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology and Heart Lung Transplant, Paediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Arrhythmias Unit, Bambino Gesu Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Attilio Turchetta
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology and Heart Lung Transplant, Division of Sports Medicine, Bambino Gesu Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Hilbold E, Bär C, Thum T. COVID-19: Insights into long-term manifestations and lockdown impacts. JOURNAL OF SPORT AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2023:S2095-2546(23)00019-4. [PMID: 36868374 PMCID: PMC9977467 DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2023.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Coronaviruses are pathogens thought to primarily affect the respiratory tracts of humans. The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in 2019 was also marked mainly by its symptoms of respiratory illness, which were named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Since its initial discovery, many other symptoms have been linked to acute SARS-CoV-2 infections as well as to the long-term outcomes of COVID-19 patients. Among these symptoms are different categories of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which continue to be the main cause of death worldwide. The World Health Organization estimates that 17.9 million people die from CVDs each year, accounting for ∼32% of all deaths globally. Physical inactivity is one of the most important behavioral risk factors for CVDs. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected CVDs as well as the physical activity in different ways. Here, we provide an overview of the current status as well as future challenges and possible solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Hilbold
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Christian Bär
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany; Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hannover 30625, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Hannover 30625, Germany
| | - Thomas Thum
- Institute of Molecular and Translational Therapeutic Strategies (IMTTS), Hannover Medical School, Hannover 30625, Germany; Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Immune-Mediated Diseases (CIMD), Hannover 30625, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Hannover 30625, Germany.
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10
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Buonsenso A, Murri A, Centorbi M, Di Martino G, Calcagno G, di Cagno A, Fiorilli G, Iuliano E. Psychological Wellbeing and Perceived Fatigue in Competitive Athletes after SARS-CoV-2 Infection 2 Years after Pandemic Start: Practical Indications. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2022; 8:jfmk8010001. [PMID: 36648893 PMCID: PMC9844459 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk8010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic deeply affected sports and athletes, influencing performance and psychological wellbeing. In order to provide useful guidelines for coaches, a web-based survey was conducted. Three web-based questionnaires were administered during the last phase of the Omicron wave to a total of 204 Italian athletes (age 24.96 ± 9.82): an informative questionnaire to collect sociodemographic data and infection symptoms information, the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) and the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12). No differences between infection sequels of different variant typologies were found over the long term after the infection. The most frequently declared symptoms included cough (50%), muscular skeletal impairments (48%) fatigue (43%) and fever (43%). Results showed that female athletes have a higher risk of developing post-COVID-19 symptoms, GHQ-12 worse results (p = 0.005) and greater fatigue (p = 0.0002) than males. No significant difference in infection incidence between high- and low-level athletes was found. Endurance athletes showed greater perceived fatigue than anaerobic sports athletes (p = 0.045). Conclusions: These results suggested the need for specific approaches and continuous updating to differentiate training programs for different athletes during the return to play. Medical controls and daily monitoring of athletes of all levels after the infection could be advisable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Buonsenso
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, v. De Sanctis 1, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Arianna Murri
- Department of Motor, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Lauro de Bosis Square 15, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Centorbi
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, v. De Sanctis 1, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Martino
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, v. De Sanctis 1, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Calcagno
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, v. De Sanctis 1, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Alessandra di Cagno
- Department of Motor, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, Lauro de Bosis Square 15, 00197 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3343176709
| | - Giovanni Fiorilli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, v. De Sanctis 1, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Enzo Iuliano
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, eCampus University, 22060 Novedrate, Italy
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11
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Vaccine versus infection - COVID-19-related loss of training time in elite athletes. J Sci Med Sport 2022; 25:950-959. [PMID: 36253224 PMCID: PMC9553966 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the number of training days lost due to COVID-19 and vaccination against COVID-19 in elite athletes. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS The questionnaire on the impact of vaccination and COVID-19 on training plans was filled out by 1073 elite Polish athletes who underwent routine medical screening between September and December 2021. RESULTS COVID-19 was diagnosed in 421 subjects (39 %), of whom 26 % were asymptomatic. On the 10-point scale, <1 % of athletes had perceived severity of the disease above 8, whereas for 64 % it was 4 or below. Vaccination against COVID-19 was administered in 820 athletes (76 %), and adverse events were observed more frequently after the first dose than the second (69 % vs. 47 %). Influence on training (modified or lost) was declared by 369 of 421 (88 %) COVID-19 athletes, and by 226 of 820 vaccinated athletes (28 %). During the observation period, the average number of lost training days was 8.1 for COVID-19 and 2.6 for vaccination (p < 0.001). The cumulative number of person-days lost due to COVID-19 was 1041 versus 295 after vaccination thus, the average loss ratio was 1041/1073 = 0.97 vs. 295/820 = 0.36, respectively, p < 0.01. CONCLUSIONS Athletes have a considerable loss of training days due to COVID-19. Vaccination against COVID-19 causes significantly smaller and predictable loss. This supports the inclusion of vaccination into prevention policies for athletes whenever they are available.
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Teo WP, Goodwill AM. Can exercise attenuate the negative effects of long COVID syndrome on brain health? Front Immunol 2022; 13:986950. [PMID: 36189287 PMCID: PMC9523009 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.986950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The impetus for many governments globally to treat the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) as an endemic warrant more research into the prevention, and management of long COVID syndrome (LCS). Whilst the data on LCS remains scarce, reports suggest a large proportion of recovered individuals will experience ongoing neuropsychological symptoms, even with mild disease severity. The pathophysiology underlying LCS is multifaceted. Evidence suggests that altered inflammatory, neurotrophic, and neurotransmitter pathways within the brain contribute to neuropsychological symptoms reported following COVID-19. Exercise or regular physical activity has long been shown to have positive effects on brain health and cognition through exerting positive effects on inflammatory markers, neurotransmitters, and neurotropic factors analogous to the neurophysiological pathways proposed to be disrupted by COVID-19 infection. Thus, exercise may serve as an important lifestyle behavior in the management of LCS. In this opinion article, we present the evidence to support the positive role of exercise in the management of cognitive symptom that manifest with LCS and discuss important considerations and interactions with cardiorespiratory and exercise tolerance complications that often present for individuals experiencing LCS. We highlight the need for more research and training of sports medicine practitioners and clinical exercise physiologists in the management of LCS with exercise and call for further research to understand the optimal dose-responses and exercise prescription guidelines for cognitive benefits and minimizing other complications.
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Jimeno‐Almazán A, Franco‐López F, Buendía‐Romero Á, Martínez‐Cava A, Sánchez‐Agar JA, Martínez BJS, Courel‐Ibáñez J, Pallarés JG. Rehabilitation for
post‐COVID
‐19 condition through a supervised exercise intervention: a randomized controlled trial. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2022; 32:1791-1801. [PMID: 36111386 PMCID: PMC9538729 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amaya Jimeno‐Almazán
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Universitario Santa Lucía, Cartagena Murcia Spain
- Human Performance and Sports Science Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - Francisco Franco‐López
- Human Performance and Sports Science Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - Ángel Buendía‐Romero
- Human Performance and Sports Science Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - Alejandro Martínez‐Cava
- Human Performance and Sports Science Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | - José Antonio Sánchez‐Agar
- Human Performance and Sports Science Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences University of Murcia Murcia Spain
| | | | | | - Jesús G. Pallarés
- Human Performance and Sports Science Laboratory, Faculty of Sport Sciences University of Murcia Murcia Spain
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Editorial Note. J Sci Med Sport 2022; 25:543. [PMID: 35777858 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2022.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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