Covid-19 Demographics from a Tertiary Care Center: Does It Depreciate Quality-of-Life?

K Revathishree1, Sudarsan Shyam Sudhakar1, R Indu1

  • 1Department of ENT-HNS, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, No. 1, Saveetha Nagar, Thandalam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105 India.

Insights

This study on COVID-19 patients found throat pain was the most common symptom. Despite the pandemic, recovery rates were high, though quality of life was impacted.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to significant global morbidity and mortality.
  • Understanding the clinical characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19 patients is crucial for managing the ongoing pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the clinical features and demographics of COVID-19 patients at a tertiary care center.
  • To analyze the clinical outcomes and impact on quality-of-life for patients with COVID-19.

Main Methods:

  • A descriptive analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1-30, 2020.
  • 250 patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 via RT-PCR were included.
  • Clinical characteristics, outcomes, and quality-of-life (using Fear of COVID-19 scale) were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • The mean age of patients was 41 years, with a male preponderance (gender ratio 1:2.4).
  • Throat pain was the most frequent presenting symptom (60%); rhinorrhea and sneezing were not reported.
  • Complication rate was 5.2%, mortality rate 0.8%, with discharge and recovery rates of 94.8% and 96%, respectively.

Conclusions:

  • Throat pain is a significant symptom in COVID-19 patients, while rhinorrhea/sneezing appear less common in this cohort.
  • The study indicates a high recovery rate among hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
  • COVID-19 infection negatively impacts patients' quality-of-life, necessitating further investigation and support.

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