Long Haulers Series - Overcoming Brain Fog

#longcovid #symptoms #brain_health

Stephanie Ramirez on Cognitive Changes and "Brain Fog" Post-COVID-19 (Long COVID)

Stephanie Ramirez, a speech-language pathologist at North Kansas City Hospital, discusses the cognitive changes and "brain fog" experienced by many individuals post-COVID-19. Here are the key takeaways from her discussion:

COVID-19's Impact on the Brain

• Persistent Immune Response

  • Activation: The virus can activate a persistent immune response, affecting neural connections in the brain.
  • Inflammation: The brain enters a "fight mode" during this immune response, which can lead to inflammation and affect various brain functions.

• Increased Rates of Stroke and Hypoxic Injuries

  • Stroke: COVID-19 patients have shown increased rates of strokes.
  • Hypoxic Injuries: These are injuries due to lack of oxygen, which can occur due to respiratory issues associated with COVID-19.

• Changes in Olfactory Cells

  • Loss of Smell: One of the early symptoms of COVID-19 is a loss of smell, which is linked to changes in the olfactory cells.
  • Memory Centers: The olfactory cells are closely connected to the brain's memory centers, potentially affecting memory.

• Chronic Stress and Brain Structure

  • Amygdala: Chronic stress affects the amygdala, a region of the brain involved in processing emotions, which can become larger.
  • Rational Thought: Chronic stress can also reduce areas of the brain involved in rational thinking and planning.

Prevalence and Symptoms of Brain Fog

• Initial Symptoms

  • Prevalence: Over 40% of COVID-19 patients exhibit brain symptoms initially, including confusion and difficulty focusing.
  • Post-Recovery: Even after recovery, 20% report cognitive changes.

• Risk Groups

  • Age Factor: The condition is more common in individuals over 70, who also face a higher risk of stroke and dementia post-COVID.

Challenges and Concerns

• Short-term Symptoms

  • Headaches and Dizziness: Common symptoms during the active phase of COVID-19.
  • Memory Loss: Patients have reported experiencing memory loss.
  • Mood Changes: Changes in mood and increased irritability have been reported.

• Long-term Concerns

  • Neurological Issues: There is a concern that long-term effects of COVID-19 might include severe neurological issues such as strokes, seizures, and even Alzheimer's.
  • Psychological Impacts: Patients might experience PTSD, depression, and anxiety as long-term effects of the virus.

Treatment and Support

• Medical Support

  • Regular Check-ups: Ramirez emphasizes the importance of regular check-ups to monitor their condition.
  • Research Studies: Patients are encouraged to participate in ongoing research studies to help advance the understanding of the virus's effects on the brain.

• Support Groups and Therapy

  • Support Groups: Various support groups, both online and offline, are available to help patients.
  • Specialty Clinics: Clinics offering pulmonology, speech therapy, and physical therapy can assist in managing symptoms.

Strategies to Alleviate Symptoms

• Daily Life Adjustments

  • Note-taking: Utilizing post-it notes for memory aid is suggested.
  • Assistive Devices: Using devices like voice recorders, timers, and alarm clocks can help in managing daily tasks.

• Mental Health

  • Relaxation Techniques: Engaging in relaxation techniques such as deep belly breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can help in reducing stress.
  • Mental Health Apps: Apps like "Calm" offer meditation and relaxation content to help manage symptoms.

• Physical Health

  • Diet: Maintaining a balanced diet with sufficient nutrients is essential.
  • Exercise: Regular physical exercise can aid in recovery.
  • Sleep: Ensuring adequate sleep is crucial for recovery, with an aim for about eight hours per night.

Ramirez encourages individuals to leverage available resources and to celebrate small victories in their recovery journey.