Associations between multidimensional fatigue and wearable-derived cardio-respiratory variables in post-COVID-19 patients: an observational study - Report - MDSpire

Associations between multidimensional fatigue and wearable-derived cardio-respiratory variables in post-COVID-19 patients: an observational study

  • By

  • Neusa R. Adão Martins

  • Simon Annaheim

  • Daniel Büche

  • René M. Rossi

  • Christina M. Spengler

  • July 16, 2026

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Links Between Various Dimensions of Fatigue and Cardio-Respiratory Metrics

Overview

This study investigates the associations between physical, cognitive, and emotional fatigue dimensions and physiological variables in post-COVID-19 patients. Findings indicate that interactions among fatigue dimensions correlate with significant changes in cardio-respiratory metrics, particularly during sleep.

Background

Fatigue is a prevalent and debilitating symptom in post-COVID-19 syndrome, impacting patients' quality of life. Understanding the physiological correlates of fatigue is essential for monitoring in clinical settings. Recent advancements in wearable technology facilitate continuous monitoring of physiological variables.

Data Highlights

Physiological VariableSignificance
Resting heart rateP <.01
Sample entropy of RR intervalsP =.04
LF peak frequencyP =.047
LF/HF ratio (overnight)P =.046
Sample entropy of RR intervals (overnight)P <.001

Key Findings

  • Daily changes in fatigue dimensions correlate with fluctuations in physiological variables.
  • Higher physical fatigue is associated with sympathetic dominance.
  • Cognitive and emotional fatigue are linked to parasympathetic dominance.
  • Interactions among fatigue dimensions show more consistent associations with physiological changes than single dimensions.

Clinical Implications

Understanding the multidimensional nature of fatigue can inform management strategies.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the importance of considering fatigue as a multidimensional construct in post-COVID-19 patients.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Infection — Dysfunction of Respiratory Muscles in Patients with Long COVID
  2. npj Digital Medicine — Systematic review: digital biomarkers of fatigue in chronic diseases
  3. BMC Pulmonary Medicine — Symptom burden, lung function, exercise tolerance and inflammation in patients post COVID-19
  4. Long COVID Clinical Guidance | Long COVID | CDC
  5. Whole Health System Approach to Long COVID: Specialty Care Clinic Visit Guide Nervous System
  6. Clinical Research in Cardiology — Exercise as a Therapeutic Approach for Long-Term Symptoms Following COVID-19: A Review of Current Research and a Proposed Randomized Controlled Trial
  7. Long COVID Clinical Guidance | Long COVID | CDC
  8. Whole Health System Approach to Long COVID: Specialty Care Clinic Visit Guide Nervous System
  9. Neurocardiac Autonomic Dysfunction in Patients With Post‐COVID‐19 Condition: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis - PMC

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