An Analysis Between Body Composition and Vertigo Post-Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients

Area of Science:

• Medical Research
• Physiology
• Public Health

Background:

• The relationship between vertigo and body composition in post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients remains unexplored.
• Vertigo is a reported symptom in some individuals experiencing long COVID.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential association between vertigo and body composition (fat, bone, muscle) in patients after COVID-19 infection.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted with 105 post-COVID-19 patients.
• Participants completed the visual analog scale (VAS) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI).
• Body composition was assessed using clinical evaluation and electrical bioimpedance.

Main Results:

• Over half of the participants (51.4%) reported vertigo, with 40% experiencing it during or after COVID-19.
• Vertigo persisted in 37.2% of patients after hospital discharge.
• Significant differences in height, body mass, body water, lean mass, fat-free mass, and musculoskeletal mass were observed between participants with and without vertigo.

Conclusions:

• A significant association exists between body composition and vertigo in post-COVID-19 patients.
• Body composition should be considered in the assessment of vertigo in long COVID.
• Further research can enhance understanding of long COVID pathophysiology.