Brain fog in long covid patients is linked to ageing by 10 Years, says new study

London: Cognitive impairment experienced by long covid patients and brain fog are equivalent to ageing by ten years.

Researchers at King's College London have made a significant discovery regarding the impact of long covid on the brain, particularly the infamous symptom known as "brain fog." It is characterised by confusion, forgetfulness, and a lack of focus and mental clarity.

The study focused on the effects of covid-19 on memory and found a heightened risk of neurological and psychiatric issues among those who experienced viral symptoms for at least 12 weeks. The research was based on data from over 3,000 participants in the COVID Symptom Study and was published in a clinical journal on Friday.

Patients who had COVID-19 symptoms persisting for 12 weeks were found to suffer the most severe effects on memory, attention, reasoning, and processing speed.

Claire Steves, a professor of ageing and health at King's College, emphasised the importance of understanding the long-term effects of the virus as some individuals continue to feel unwell and impacted even two years after their initial infection. "We need more work to understand why this is the case and what can be done to help," Professor Steves told The Guardian.

The study sheds light on the lingering effects of long covid which is affecting a significant number of individuals in the UK. As of January 2023, approximately two million people in the UK reported experiencing long covid, which is defined as symptoms continuing for more than four weeks after the initial infection.

The findings may lead to improved treatments and care for individuals grappling with the cognitive challenges posed by long covid.