Mechanisms of Exercise Intolerance After COVID-19

It is well established that after infection, there is a general period of physical deconditioning that occurs. This is characterized by a decrease in muscle mass and an increase in body fat. However, recent research has shown that there may be other mechanisms at play when it comes to exercise intolerance after COVID-19. In this blog post, we will explore some of the new perspectives on exercise intolerance after COVID-19.

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Three mechanisms for exercise intolerance after COVID-19:

1. Inflammation: It is now believed that inflammation plays a role in exercise intolerance after COVID-19. This is because inflammation can lead to fatigue and myalgia, which are both common symptoms of exercise intolerance.
2. Autonomic dysfunction: Autonomic dysfunction is another possible mechanism of exercise intolerance after COVID-19. This is because autonomic dysfunction can lead to an increased heart rate and blood pressure during exercise, making it more difficult to tolerate exercise.
3. Cardiac dysfunction: Cardiac dysfunction has also been implicated as a mechanism of exercise intolerance after COVID-19. This is because cardiac dysfunction can lead to reduced stroke volume and cardiac output during exercise, making it more difficult to tolerate exercise.

There are many possibilities for exercise intolerance after a COVID-19 infection. These include physical deconditioning, inflammation, autonomic dysfunction, and cardiac dysfunction. While more research is needed to confirm these mechanisms, they provide new insights into the causes of exercise intolerance after COVID-19.

If you have had a recent COVID-19 infection and are experiencing exercise intolerance, speak to your healthcare provider. Together with your provider, you can discuss an exercise regimen specific to your situation.