Description
COVID-19 has been shown to cause several long-lasting neurological effects, with some individuals experiencing cognitive problems for up to two years after infection. These issues are particularly prevalent among those with Long COVID, where a large majority report difficulties with concentration. Strikingly, the cognitive decline observed in hospitalized COVID-19 patients is comparable to what would normally occur over two decades of aging, highlighting the severity of the virus’s impact on brain function.
The cognitive symptoms associated with COVID-19 are wide-ranging and can significantly affect daily life. People often experience difficulty concentrating, a general sense of mental fogginess often referred to as “brain fog,” problems with memory, trouble finding the right words when speaking, and overall reduced fluency in language use. These symptoms are believed to be caused by the virus triggering inflammation in the brain, as well as causing tiny blood clots that reduce oxygen supply to brain tissues. Additionally, COVID-19 may trigger auto-immune reactions in the brain, further contributing to cognitive impairment.
