Referral to a specialist rehabilitation service does not seem to be needed for most patients, who can expect a gradual, if sometimes protracted, improvement in energy levels and breathlessness, aided by careful pacing, prioritisation, and modest goal setting. In our experience, most but not all patients who were not admitted to hospital recover well with four to six weeks of light aerobic exercise (such as walking or Pilates), gradually increasing in intensity as tolerated. Those returning to employment may need support to negotiate a phased return.
Next Steps
After excluding serious ongoing complications or comorbidities, and until the results of long term follow-up studies are available, patients are managed pragmatically and symptomatically with an emphasis on holistic support while avoiding over-investigation.