The disease caused by the pathogen SARS-CoV-2 is known as coronavirus disease with the acronym COVID-19. The acute phase of this condition typically lasts one to two weeks and usually results in a full recovery. However, in about 10-30% of those affected, the symptoms persist for more than four weeks after the onset of the disease. In this case, there is an ongoing COVID-19 illness known as long COVID. Long COVID can persist for many months and cause significant distress and limitations to those affected due to the long-term health consequences. The causes of long COVID are still unclear and, accordingly, therapeutic measures are still insufficiently developed. It is assumed that long COVID can in principle affect anyone. Age, gender, obesity and the number of symptoms during an acute COVID-19 illness are discussed as risk factors for long COVID. Another potential risk factor for developing long COVID could be chronic stress, which has been shown to put a strain on the immune system. It is known from infections with other coronaviruses and other viral respiratory diseases that chronic stress can lead to prolonged illness and limited recovery. The aim of this study is to systematically examine chronic stress, as it existed before infection with the coronavirus, as a possible risk factor for long COVID. For this purpose, 600 people who have been proven to be infected with SARS-CoV-2 and have developed symptoms of COVID-19 will be included in this study.
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
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A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Symptom persistence beyond four weeks from the onset of acute symptoms of COVID-19 (subacute/ongoing symptomatic COVID-19).
Timeframe: Symptom persistence at one month after having tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection (subacute/ongoing symptomatic COVID-19)