Cognitive Effects of COVID-19

All over social media and the news, COVID-19 brain fog is the talk of the town. But what causes the neurological effects? SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 disease, can affect brain health either directly or indirectly. 

First, the virus can directly infect the cells of the brain or surrounding tissue and cause inflammation, a process known as encephalitis. Secondly, because the virus affects blood vessels and blood clotting, COVID-19 may possibly restrict oxygen to the brain. Brain damage can result if too little oxygen is supplied to the brain. The resulting brain damage can lead to neuropsychological effects such as anxiety, depression, memory loss, and “brain fog”. 

The more severe the illness, the higher the likelihood COVID-19 survivors will experience these cognitive defects. However, even mild illnesses can lead to neurological symptoms such as brain fog, which can start shortly after COVID-19 disease and last for months after recovery.

Unlike anxiety and depression, brain fog is not a medical term. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, brain fog has been used to describe general cognitive haziness or difficulty thinking. Some also report tiredness and attention deficits. Scientists are still trying to figure out the cause of brain fog, but many believe it is due to the brain inflammation and blood clotting as described above. Many questions, however, remain unanswered. For instance, we do not know how long COVID-19 associated brain fog lasts.

What can you do to prevent brain fog? First, prevention is key. If given the opportunity, please consider getting a COVID-19 vaccine. These vaccines are highly effective and safe. However, if you are already experiencing brain fog after a COVID-19 infection, most doctors suggest abiding to a healthy diet while restricting alcohol, caffeine, and drug use. If you are experiencing cognitive symptoms, call us at Pathways Neuropsychology Associates for a comprehensive evaluation.