COVID-19 may interfere with electrical functions in the frontal lobe regions of the brain.
A Deep Look into COVID-19's Impact on the Brain
Electroencephalography (EEG) tests have revealed that abnormalities in the frontal region of the brain are common among COVID-19 patients showing neurological symptoms.
COVID-19 has been linked to a range of neurological issues, such as headaches, confusion, seizures, and strokes, in around 15-25% of severe cases. Patients experiencing such symptoms might undergo an EEG test, which uses electrodes placed on the scalp to observe the brain's electrical activity.
Researchers from Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Pittsburgh collected EEG results from 617 patients, compiled in 84 different studies, to investigate COVID-19's impact on the brain. The majority of these patients were male, with a median age of 61.3 years.
The most frequent findings from this analysis were slowed brain waves and abnormal electrical discharges. Researchers noticed that the severity of these EEG abnormalities correlated with the disease's severity and the presence of preexisting neurological conditions.
"The virus seems to have a preference for the frontal lobe, which is directly next to the nose - the most likely entry point for the virus," explains Dr. Zulfi Haneef, an assistant professor of neurology/neurophysiology at Baylor. He suggests further investigation using EEG and other imaging techniques, such as MRT or CT scans, to analyze the frontal lobe in even greater detail.
However, it's essential to consider that systemic effects of the infection, like inflammation, low oxygen levels, blood clotting, and cardiac arrest, may also be responsible for EEG abnormalities that extend beyond the frontal lobes.
Some COVID-19 survivors have reported ongoing health troubles, often referred to as "long COVID". Among these issues is "brain fog." A recent unreviewed study found that individuals who claimed to have had COVID-19 scored lower on a cognitive test than those who had not contracted the virus. The researchers estimated an age-related cognitive decline of around ten years for those affected.
"The EEG abnormalities add to our concerns about long-term issues stemming from COVID-19," shares Dr. Haneef. He warns that, while approximately 56.8% of patients show improvements upon follow-up EEG tests, long-term neurological complications cannot be ruled out entirely.
For the most recent COVID-19-related information, visit our coronavirus hub. If you're curious about preventing and treating the virus, check out our detailed advice. Keep in mind that this article should not replace professional medical advice.
Brace Yourself: Brain Fog and COVID-19|Further Reading|Related Resources
Brain Fog and COVID-19
A study, not yet peer-reviewed or published, discovered that individuals who thought they had COVID-19 performed worse on a cognitive test than those who didn't believe they contracted the virus. The infection may have accelerated cognitive aging by a decade, according to the authors.
Experts contacted by the Science Media Centre in London, United Kingdom, cautioned that this cross-sectional study does not conclusively prove long-term cognitive decline. Yet, it underlines several concerns about long-term brain effects.
"The findings are a stark reminder that the impact of COVID-19 extends beyond the lungs and can have profound effects on the brain," says Dr. Haneef. "People should stay vigilant, even after recovery, and address any lingering symptoms promptly to minimize potential long-term damage."
Ensure to consult with healthcare professionals for guidance on managing ongoing COVID-19 effects or addressing brain fog.
Related Resources:
- Coronavirus: What You Need to Know
- COVID-19 Vaccines: The Science, Efficacy, and Rollout
- COVID-19 Long-haulers: Managing Long-term Effects
Coronavirus: What You Need to Know| COVID-19 Vaccines: Science, Efficacy, Rollout| COVID-19 Long-haulers: Managing Long-term Effects
Coronavirus: What You Need to Know
In this comprehensive guide, we cover the fundamentals of COVID-19, its symptoms, transmission, and prevention measures. Learn about the virus, its deadly effects, and how to protect yourself and others.
COVID-19 Vaccines: Science, Efficacy, Rollout
Explore the development, efficacy, and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines in this in-depth article. Stay informed on the science behind the vaccine, its variants, and how to ensure a successful rollout.
COVID-19 Long-haulers: Managing Long-term Effects
Dive into the ongoing health struggles faced by COVID-19 long-haulers, their symptoms, and strategies for managing long-term effects. Learn about the latest research and available treatments to support the recovery process.
- COVID-19 can cause a range of neurological symptoms such as seizures, and researchers have noticed an increased prevalence of epilepsy seizures among patients.
- Research suggests that COVID-19 may have long-term impacts on mental health, with some survivors reporting ongoing health troubles like "brain fog" which could be related to neurological disorders.
- A recent unreviewed study found that individuals who had COVID-19 scored lower on a cognitive test, hinting at a possible link between the virus and health-and-wellness issues like cognitive decline.
- CBD, a compound often used for treating neurological disorders and mental health, may hold potential as a treatment for COVID-19-related health problems such as brain fog and long-term neurological complications.
