A new study on COVID-19 has revealed that the medication may have long-term effects on the brain, which is not only concerning to those who are currently taking it but also for those who have already stopped taking it as well.
The main concern with these side effects of COVID-19 is that it can affect mental capacity and memory, though some patients have also claimed to experience strange dreams and hallucinations while taking the drug.
This has led some people to question whether or not this medication should be available to the public at all, but what do you think?
How Much Evidence Is There?
There is still a lot unknown about the virus and its long-term effects, but there is some evidence emerging that suggests it may have lasting impacts on the brain.
A study published in Nature Medicine found that people who had been hospitalized with COVID-19 were more likely to have problems with their cognitive function six months later.
Other studies have found that people who have had COVID-19 are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and insomnia. While more research is needed to understand the full extent of the virus’s impact on the brain, it’s clear that it can have lasting consequences.
What are the long-term effects?
There is still much unknown about the virus, but some experts are beginning to speculate about the long-term effects that COVID-19 may have on the brain. These effects could include problems with memory and concentration, as well as an increased risk for developing dementia.
The virus may also cause inflammation in the brain, which could lead to a variety of neurological problems. It’s important to remember that these are only potential effects and more research is needed to determine exactly how COVID-19 affects the brain in the long term.
Can it be treated or reversed?
There is still much unknown about the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the brain.
However, some experts believe that it may cause lasting damage. The virus has been shown to attack the nervous system, leading to problems with cognition, memory, and mood.
Treatment for these problems is currently unavailable, but researchers are hopeful that they will be able to develop effective treatments in the future.
In the meantime, people who have experienced cognitive or neurological problems after contracting COVID-19 should seek out support from a mental health professional.
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Is it safe for those over 18s?
In one study, it was found that people who were infected with COVID-19 are at increased risk for developing depression or anxiety later in life.
In another study on monkeys, it was found that those who contracted the virus had lower levels of dopamine production in their brains than those who did not.
It has also been suggested by some researchers that getting this new vaccine could make people more susceptible to getting other diseases such as HIV or hepatitis C.
The exact reason for this susceptibility is not known but it may have something to do with changes in antibodies or lymphocytes caused by being vaccinated against COVID-19.
Final Thoughts
Though we don’t yet know all of the long-term effects of COVID-19, it’s clear that the virus can have lasting consequences for the brain.
In addition to the well-known cognitive effects, such as memory problems and trouble concentrating, research suggests that COVID-19 may also lead to changes in mood and behavior.
As more and more people are diagnosed with the virus, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks it poses to our mental health. With proper treatment and support, however, many people will be able to recover from the cognitive and emotional challenges posed by COVID-19.
References:
Mayo Clinic(1998-2022)COVID-19: Long-term effects (Available Online): https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-long-term-effects/art-20490351
Centers For Disease Control And Prevention(n.d)Long COVID or Post-COVID Conditions (Available Online): https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/long-term-effects/index.html
With over 15 years as a practicing journalist, Nikki Attkisson found herself at Powdersville Post now after working at several other publications. She is an award-winning journalist with an entrepreneurial spirit and worked as a journalist covering technology, innovation, environmental issues, politics, health etc. Nikki Attkisson has also worked on product development, content strategy, and editorial management for numerous media companies. She began her career at local news stations and worked as a reporter in national newspapers.