Impact of Gastrointestinal Symptoms on in-Hospital Outcomes and Long-Term Sequelae in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study

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<i>Background:</i> Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms have become increasingly recognized as a significant aspect of COVID-19. However, the long-term impact of GI symptoms on disease course, outcomes, and post-discharge sequelae remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the disease course, outcomes, and long-term sequelae of hospitalized COVID-19 patients with and without GI symptoms. <i>Methods:</i> A prospective cohort study was conducted on 246 hospitalized COVID-19 patients at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Participants were divided into two groups: 123 with GI symptoms and 123 without. Clinical outcomes during hospitalization and post-discharge follow-up were compared between the two groups. <i>Results:</i> Patients with GI symptoms demonstrated better in-hospital outcomes, including lower oxygen requirements and a higher frequency of complete recovery. However, rates of ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, and mortality were similar between both groups. Long-term follow-up revealed comparable rates of post-COVID-19 symptoms in both groups, with persistent symptoms being more common than new symptoms. <i>Conclusion:</i> Our study found that patients with GI symptoms had better in-hospital outcomes regarding oxygen requirements and complete recovery. However, long-term post-discharge sequelae were similar in both groups. These findings highlight the importance of ongoing research to better understand the long-term impact of COVID-19, including the potential role of GI symptoms in disease course and outcomes.