Relationship Between Fatigue, Perceived Social Support and Symptomatology of Long-COVID Patients in Spain

Long-COVID, identified in approximately 15% of symptomatic cases of COVID-19 in Spain, is a chronic multiorgan disease characterised by persistent symptoms, such as fatigue, dyspnoea, and cognitive difficulties. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between fatigue, perceived social support, and symptomatology in Spanish patients with Long-COVID, with the objective of identifying variables that contribute to holistic care.

An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with a non-randomised sample of 374 patients belonging to Spanish associations of Long-COVID patients. It was conducted using self-administered questionnaires distributed between July and November 2022 through associations of patients with Long-COVID.

Ethical evaluation was requested by the research ethics committee of the Eastern Area of Valladolid, which granted approval with registration number PI-22-2747.

A total of 374 individuals who met specific criteria, including proficiency in Spanish and persistent symptoms, participated. Sociodemographic variables, persistent symptomatology, levels of fatigue (FSS scale), and perceived social support (DUKE-UNC-11 scale) were assessed. Descriptive statistical analysis, linear regression, and logistic analysis were employed to determine associations between variables.

The sample predominantly consisted of women (79.9%) with a mean age of 47 years. Neurological symptoms (79.4%) and pain (75.9%) were the most prevalent. Notably, 54.5% of participants experienced severe fatigue, which was negatively correlated with perceived social support. Conversely, perceived social support exhibited a significant association with neurological, psychic, and pain symptoms. Additionally, variables such as age and fatigue level predicted affective and confidential social support.

Fatigue and pain are associated with low perceptions of social support, underscoring the necessity of integrating psychosocial assessments into care protocols for patients with Long-COVID. An approach focused on perceived social support could enhance the adaptation of these patients, contributing to a more comprehensive and personalised model of care.