COVID-19 with Gastrointestinal Symptoms: A Narrative Review

Objective: This study aims to conduct a brief literature review on gastrointestinal problems caused by COVID-19, characterized by symptoms and sequelae. Design: Literature review based on a narrative synthesis. Data sources: Databases: Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Scielo, Google Scholar. Study selection: The documents were selected and analyzed under a critical literature review, considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Out of a total of 461,161 potentially relevant articles, the analysis was based on 19 studies, of which 10 were statistical analyses, 5 were narrative reviews, and 3 were systematic reviews. Patients involved in these studies not only exhibited gastrointestinal conditions due to COVID-19 but also experienced neurological, cardiovascular issues, and pneumonia. The study populations included children, young adults, adults, and pregnant women, with studies conducted in the United States, China, Morocco, Iran, Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil. Conclusions: COVID-19 has caused gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, and persistent sequelae like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), erectile dysfunction, and functional dyspepsia. Adults also face psychosocial disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Long-term sequelae include cognitive disorders, fatigue, hypertension, and chronic respiratory problems. Severe patients are at higher risk for coagulopathies and require intensive care. These sequelae significantly impact quality of life, increase psychological stress, and contribute to economic burdens.