Efficacy of inhaled corticosteroid and bronchodilator in patients with persistent respiratory symptoms post COVID-19 infection: a retrospective analysis

<bold>Background:</bold> Post COVID-19 infection, cough and dyspnea are commonly reported respiratory symptoms, persisting in some patients for over 1-3 months. The underlying mechanisms remain unclear, and effective treatments are lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of inhaled corticosteroid and bronchodilator therapy in patients experiencing cough and dyspnea post COVID-19 infection. <bold>Methods:</bold> A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with cough and dyspnea persisting for over one month following COVID-19 infection. Patients who showed inadequate response to oral medication after 1-4 weeks were initiated on inhaled corticosteroid and bronchodilator therapy. <bold>Results:</bold> Of the 200 patients included (71% female), 69 (34.5%) had a history of atopic diseases. Serum total IgE levels ranged from 2.9 to 3073 KU/L, with 38% having IgE > 100 KU/L. Allergen testing (MAST) was positive in 53% of patients. Inhaled corticosteroid and bronchodilator therapy was administered to 101 patients (55%) for one month. Complete resolution rates were 63% for cough, 75% for chest tightness, and 72% for dyspnea. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> In patients experiencing persistent respiratory symptoms such as cough, chest tightness, or dyspnea post COVID-19 infection, with inadequate response to oral medication for at least one month, consideration of inhaled corticosteroid and bronchodilator therapy may be beneficial, irrespective of a history of atopic diseases, to alleviate asthma-like symptoms.