Description
In a recent virtual webinar, respiratory physician James Hull discussed the consequences of long COVID on athletes, drawing on his extensive experience at the Royal Brompton Hospital and an advisory role with various sporting organizations, including the International Olympic Committee. Hull highlighted how the pandemic has led to evolving understanding of COVID-19 symptoms, emphasizing a disconnect between new case counts and hospitalizations due to vaccination efforts. He elaborated on how COVID-19 primarily affects respiratory functions, leading to breathlessness and fatigue, and the emerging long COVID symptoms that persist beyond 12 weeks, which pose significant challenges for athletes aiming for peak performance. Hull also referenced recent studies that indicate a much lower prevalence of cardiac damage in athletes compared to earlier estimations, offering reassurance regarding athletes' health amid ongoing concerns over long-term COVID effects. Throughout the webinar, Hull underscored the need for continued research to address the complex interplay of long COVID symptoms, athletic performance, and return-to-play protocols.
DOI: 10.1302/3114-210660