Neurological Effects of COVID-19: How the Virus Impacts Brain Health

For many people, recovering from COVID-19 is just the beginning of their journey back to full health. While most symptoms resolve within weeks, some individuals experience lingering neurological effects that impact daily life. Understanding how COVID-19 affects the brain is essential for managing post-viral symptoms and seeking appropriate care.

Common Neurological Symptoms After COVID-19

Some people continue to experience neurological issues after recovering from COVID-19. The most commonly reported symptoms include:

• Brain fog (difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly)
• Headaches (persistent or more frequent than before infection)
• Dizziness
• Fatigue (unusual or prolonged exhaustion)
• Loss of smell or taste (anosmia or ageusia, sometimes lasting for months)
• Nerve pain or tingling (burning, numbness, or shooting pain in hands, feet, or face)
• Muscle weakness or coordination issues
• Sleep disturbances

These symptoms can last weeks or even months after infection, and while most people eventually recover, some may develop long COVID, a condition where symptoms persist beyond 12 weeks.

How Does COVID-19 Affect the Brain?

COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory virus, but it can also impact the nervous system in several ways:

1. Inflammation and the Immune Response

The body's immune response to COVID-19 can cause widespread inflammation, affecting the brain. This inflammation can lead to brain fog, headaches, and fatigue—common symptoms seen in post-COVID patients.

2. Blood Vessel and Circulatory Damage

Studies have found that COVID-19 can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of strokes, blood clots, and reduced oxygen supply to the brain. In severe cases, brain swelling (encephalitis) can occur, leading to confusion or prolonged cognitive impairment.

3. Direct Viral Impact on the Nervous System

Although rare, COVID-19 has been found in brain tissue and spinal fluid, suggesting the virus may directly affect the nervous system. Some patients have developed conditions similar to multiple sclerosis (MS) due to immune system overactivity.

Who Is Most at Risk for Neurological Symptoms?

While anyone can develop post-COVID neurological symptoms, certain groups may be at higher risk:

• Older adults (especially those over 50)
• People with pre-existing neurological conditions (e.g., migraines, multiple sclerosis)
• Patients with severe COVID-19 infections (hospitalized or requiring oxygen support)
• Individuals with autoimmune disorders

Even young and otherwise healthy individuals can develop neurological symptoms after COVID-19, including an increased risk of strokes.

When to See a Doctor for Post-COVID Neurological Symptoms

If you’ve recovered from COVID-19 but are still experiencing brain fog, nerve pain, headaches, or dizziness, it’s essential to seek medical care. While mild symptoms may improve with time, severe or persistent issues may require evaluation by a neurologist.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden confusion or memory loss
• Severe headaches that worsen over time
• Unexplained muscle weakness or numbness
• Vision problems or loss of coordination
• Stroke-like symptoms (slurred speech, facial drooping, weakness on one side of the body)

Treatment Options for Post-COVID Neurological Symptoms

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for neurological symptoms after COVID-19, but there are strategies that may help:

• Cognitive therapy & brain exercises – Activities like puzzles, memory games, and reading can help improve brain function.
• Medications for nerve pain & migraines – Doctors may prescribe medications to manage symptoms like headaches and nerve pain.
• Physical therapy & rehabilitation – Beneficial for those experiencing muscle weakness or coordination problems.
• Anti-inflammatory diet – Eating nutrient-rich foods may help reduce inflammation and support brain health.
• Adequate sleep & stress management – Poor sleep and high stress can worsen brain fog and fatigue.

Neurology Experts at BASS Medical Group

If you’re experiencing lingering neurological symptoms after COVID-19, BASS Medical Group is here to help. Our neurologists and internal medicine specialists provide personalized care to evaluate and treat brain fog, headaches, nerve pain, and other post-COVID concerns.

Serving the Greater San Francisco Bay Area with multiple locations for your convenience.

Visit bassmedicalgroup.com to find a doctor to call & schedule an appointment.