Which group of COVID-19 patients is more prone to experience long-term consequences?

Patients who developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are more prone to experience long-term consequences following a COVID-19 infection due to the severity of their condition. ARDS is a serious lung condition that causes low blood oxygen levels and requires intensive medical intervention, often including mechanical ventilation. The severe nature of this syndrome can result in significant lung damage and other complications, leading to persistent symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty breathing, and other respiratory issues well after the initial infection has resolved.

In contrast, patients without symptoms or those who experienced only mild symptoms are generally less likely to encounter long-lasting effects since their bodies may have managed the virus effectively without significant damage. The risk of long-term complications tends to increase with the severity of the illness, making those who suffered from ARDS particularly vulnerable. Additionally, while patients over 60 may have other risk factors for severe disease, the direct link between ARDS and prolonged complications is a critical consideration when assessing long-term outcomes in COVID-19 patients. Thus, the group that experienced ARDS is identified as at higher risk for long-term consequences due to the severe impact on their respiratory function and overall health.