Attenuated cardiac autonomic function in patients with long-COVID with impaired orthostatic hemodynamics.

The study investigates the altered autonomic function in patients with long-COVID who experience orthostatic hypotension or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). The researchers found that patients with long-COVID exhibited diminished cardiac autonomic function compared to healthy controls. Specifically, those with initial orthostatic hypotension showed decreased supine baroreflex sensitivity, while individuals with POTS had reduced upright vascular sympathetic and cardiac parasympathetic modulation. These findings suggest that long-COVID subgroups manifest distinct autonomic dysfunctions, highlighting the need for tailored therapeutic strategies. This research provides insights into the pathophysiology of cardiovascular autonomic health in long-COVID, which is vital for understanding and managing POTS-related symptoms in these patients.