Can COVID-19 affect the brain?

COVID-19 can indeed affect the brain in various ways. Scientists have found that the virus can cause significant brain damage, often through indirect mechanisms. For example, a study examining the brains of people who died from COVID-19 revealed damage to small blood vessels, which appeared as tiny punctures or leaks—akin to many small strokes occurring throughout the brain. Interestingly, the virus itself was not found in these damaged areas; rather, the damage likely resulted from the body's immune response trying to combat the virus 1.

Additionally, COVID-19 has been associated with cognitive problems such as memory issues, mood changes, and autonomic dysfunctions (e.g., heart racing, dizziness, and gastrointestinal problems) 1. This reflects a broader impact on both mental and physical health.

Neurologists are also concerned about potential long-term effects, including a higher risk of Alzheimer's disease due to immune system reactions and vascular damage associated with COVID-19 2. Cognitive deficits in those recovering from the virus have been well-documented and sometimes correlate with observable changes in brain structure, such as loss of gray matter in regions responsible for higher cognitive functions 3.

Moreover, severe cases of COVID-19, especially those involving intensive care, can lead to complications like strokes due to hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and other immune-related issues like encephalitis (brain inflammation) 4 5.

Therefore, COVID-19's impact on the brain is multifaceted and significant, highlighting the importance of both prevention and ongoing research into the long-term effects of the virus.