From the start of the pandemic, doctors observed a series of neurological symptoms in patients with COVID-19. Among the most frequent manifestations, we find:
- The loss of smell (anosmia)
- Of the headaches persistent
- And cognitive slowing
- Episodes of delirium
- An increased risk ofstrokes
These symptoms, initially considered temporary, quickly alerted researchers to the virus's ability to affect the central nervous system. L'anosmiain particular, has become a characteristic marker of infection, suggesting direct damage to brain structures linked to olfaction.
Long-term cognitive aftereffects
More than four years after the start of the health crisis, scientists find that many COVID-19 survivors continue to suffer from persistent neuropsychological disorders. These after-effects, grouped under the term “COVID long”include:
- The brain fogcharacterized by difficulty concentrating and remembering
- Of the depressive states more common
- And overall cognitive slowing
These persistent symptoms have a significant impact on the quality of life of those affected, affecting their ability to work and carry out daily activities. Researchers are concerned that these disorders could be the beginnings of an increase in cases of dementia in the years to come, thus prolonging the societal and economic consequences of the pandemic.
Evidence of accelerated brain aging
A British study conducted in 2021 provided tangible evidence of the effects of COVID-19 on brain structure. By comparing brain scans carried out before and after the start of the pandemic, researchers made alarming discoveries:
| Observations | Potential implications |
|---|---|
| Signs of brain damage | Increased risk of neurological disorders |
| Accelerated aging of the brain | Premature cognitive decline |
| Affect of the olfactory region | Persistence of anosmia |
These changes were observed even in patients who had mild forms of the disease, several months after the initial infection. This finding highlights the importance of long-term follow-up of people who have contracted COVID-19, regardless of the initial severity of their symptoms.
Future prospects and challenges
Faced with these worrying findings, the medical community is mobilizing to better understand and prevent the neurological after-effects of COVID-19. The issues are multiple:
- Basic research : Elucidating the mechanisms by which the SARS-CoV-2 virus affects the brain.
- I followed it longitudinally : Establish long-term monitoring protocols for COVID patients.
- Therapeutic development : Design targeted treatments to prevent or mitigate brain damage.
- Public health : Anticipate and prepare health systems for a possible increase in cases of dementia.
The impact of COVID-19 on brain health could represent a major health challenge for decades to come. Vigilance and continued research are essential to address this emerging threat and protect the cognitive health of the global population.
