Recent studies reveal that many individuals suffering from long COVID experience a phenomenon popularly known as “brain fog.” This issue appears to stem from neurological changes, such as inflammation and rewiring of the brain, following a COVID-19 infection.
A small study conducted by researchers in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in collaboration with Corewell Health at Michigan State University, has indicated that fluctuations in key brain chemicals could play a significant role in these symptoms.
This research represents the first time that there’s been scientific backing to validate the experiences of around 12 million people in the U.S. reporting neurological issues related to long COVID.
Researchers examined various biomarkers in participants, noting that those who reported brain fog displayed elevated levels of anti-inflammatory proteins crucial for immune system regulation. Meanwhile, there was a notable decrease in nerve growth factor levels, which is essential for brain adaptability.
The study evaluated 17 COVID-19 patients, including those who still exhibited symptoms six months post-infection. Among these, brain fog emerged as the most challenging symptom. It’s characterized by slowed thinking, forgetfulness, difficulty processing information, and trouble concentrating on tasks that were previously easy.
Brain plasticity, described as the brain’s capacity for recovery and adjustment following illness or injury, involves the reshaping of its structure and connection pathways.
A significant challenge with long COVID is the absence of observable physical symptoms that could be detected by healthcare providers. However, according to co-author Dr. Bent Arnetz, this research has shifted that narrative.
“The biological changes we’ve identified are a significant step forward in this area,” Arnetz stated. He noted that alongside the effects on executive functions, a suppression of NGF—which measures the brain’s capability to form new neurons and connections—was found to be linked to long COVID. This aligns with outcomes from neurocognitive assessments.
During neurocognitive testing, participants underwent various cognitive evaluations, with results being particularly telling in one specific test focusing on verbal fluency.
Co-author and clinical neuropsychologist Michael Lawrence explained that this testing assesses a person’s executive function under time limitations, requiring them to generate words beginning with specified letters or categorize items like animals or fruits.
Struggles or inaccuracies in executing these tasks can signal issues in executive function, memory, and language, similar to what is observed in conditions like Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.
“Now we have concrete evidence that validates what patients have been experiencing,” Lawrence remarked.
Recognizing long COVID patients through identifiable biomarkers could assist the medical community in establishing comprehensive treatments addressing their symptoms, he suggested.
“A few years ago, there was a tendency to regard mental health and physical health as separate entities. However, it’s increasingly clear that they are interconnected,” Lawrence explained. “Improving mental health could lead to reduced complaints of pain and fatigue. We need a holistic approach to treatment and, ideally, to start it early.”
