postvirale

Postvirale refers to symptoms or conditions that persist after an acute viral infection or arise in its aftermath. The term is used across medical specialties to describe a range of sequelae following illnesses caused by viruses, including influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, coronaviruses, and others. It is not a single disease but a spectrum of possible post-infection phenomena.

Common manifestations include prolonged fatigue, cognitive difficulties often described as brain fog, shortness of breath, persistent cough, chest palpitations, headaches, sleep disturbances, and loss or alteration of smell or taste. In some cases, symptoms involve multiple organ systems and can last weeks to months. Notable examples are post-viral fatigue syndromes and post-viral olfactory dysfunction, though presentations vary by individual and virus.

Pathophysiology is not fully understood. Proposed mechanisms include immune system dysregulation after infection, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, metabolic or mitochondrial changes, and deconditioning after illness. Risk factors are not firmly established but may include the severity of the initial infection, female sex, older age, and preexisting health conditions.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on a history of a prior viral illness and persistent symptoms beyond a typical recovery window, with exclusion of other explanations. Additional tests may be used to assess organ involvement or rule out alternative conditions.

Management is generally supportive and multidisciplinary, aiming to relieve symptoms, promote gradual rehabilitation, address sleep and mental health needs, and treat coexisting conditions. Most people recover over time, but some experience prolonged symptoms. Prevention emphasizes preventing viral infections through vaccination and public health measures.