Brain's frontal lobes electric activity disrupted by COVID-19
A recent review of research indicates that a significant number of Covid-19 patients experience neurological symptoms, such as headaches, confusion, and seizures.
The Virus' Impact on the Brain
Researchers from Baylor College of Medicine and the University of Pittsburgh analyzed EEG results from 617 patients to understand how Covid-19 affects the brain. They found that common EEG abnormalities included slowing of brain waves and irregular electrical discharges.
Interestingly, the most severe EEG abnormalities were discovered in the frontal lobes of the brain, the area closest to the nose, which is the most likely entry point for the virus. "These findings tell us that we need to try EEG on a wider range of patients," says Dr. Zulfi Haneef, one of the study's co-authors.
However, it's important to note that the virus may not be directly responsible for all the damage. Systemic effects of the infection, such as inflammation, low oxygen levels, and cardiac arrest, could play a role in the EEG abnormalities that extend beyond the frontal lobes.
Long-term Effects on the Brain
Some people who have recovered from Covid-19 report long-lasting health problems, including cognitive issues. A recent study suggested that the infection may have aging effects on the brain, with individuals performing less well on cognitive tests after recovering from Covid-19.
The association of these EEG abnormalities with neurological symptoms of Covid-19 adds to the concerns about the long-term effects on the brain. As Dr. Haneef puts it, "a lot of people think they will get the illness, get well, and everything will go back to normal, but these findings tell us that there might be long-term issues."
On a positive note, researchers found that 56.8% of patients showed improvements in their EEG tests during follow-ups.
While the research is still evolving, it's crucial to be aware of the potential neurological complications of Covid-19. If you experience any unusual symptoms after recovering from the virus, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
- The recent study on the impact of Covid-19 on the brain discovered that the most severe EEG abnormalities were found in the frontal lobes, which are the areas closest to the nose, potentially making them the virus's most likely entry point.
- Researchers also found a correlation between these EEG abnormalities and the neurological symptoms of Covid-19, which adds to the concerns about the long-term effects of the virus on the brain.
- Interestingly, while some Covid-19 patients report long-lasting health problems, including cognitive issues, a significant number of patients showed improvements in their EEG tests during follow-ups, suggesting a potential for recovery of neurological conditions.
