Diaphragm Muscle Weakness Might Explain Exertional Dyspnea 15 Months after Hospitalization for COVID-19.

Regmi B; Friedrich J; Jörn B; Senol M; Giannoni A; Boentert M; Daher A; Dreher M; Spiesshoefer J

Abstract

Diaphragm muscle weakness was present 15 months after hospitalization for COVID-19 even in patients who did not require mechanical ventilation, and this weakness was associated with dyspnea on exertion. The current study, therefore, identifies diaphragm muscle weakness as a correlate for persistent dyspnea in patients after COVID-19 in whom lung and cardiac function are normal. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04854863).