Following the pandemic, a large number of people have been experiencing memory loss after Covid, trouble concentrating, and overall “brain fog”. Therefore, it is a more and more common question if Covid can affect permanent changes in the brain. That said, various ways exist to improve your memory after a Covid infection and recover.
Check out this blog post to learn more about post-Covid memory loss.
Does covid affect your memory?
Yes, Covid can affect your memory. Post Covid memory issues can happen while you are infected, but can also continue after you recover from the disease. Covid impairment in the brain causes what we call “brain fog.” Brain Fog is slow or sluggish thinking that will consequently influence your cognition. But how does the Covid-19 virus alter your cognition?
There are several theories on how Covid affects cognition. This concept includes memory, attention, and executive function, as defined by Harvard experts. In addition, the virus can impact the central nervous system through neural or hematogenous pathways. This can be due to direct damage caused by the virus or indirect damage from the body’s immune response.
Many people reported post Covid memory loss, disorientation, confusion, or problems concerning attention or focus.
Furthermore, many scientists connect hypoxia (low oxygen levels) caused by Covid to distress the brain, which consumes 20% of the body’s total basal oxygen. According to a study, nerve cells in the brains of adults who died from severe Covid were significantly damaged due to inflammation and oxygen deprivation.
Harvard pointed to a German study that suggested that even people who don’t notice signs of cognitive impairment after a mild case of Covid can have difficulties with memory and attention.
With that said, not only can Covid-19 trigger new neurologic symptoms, but it can also worsen pre-existing issues such as dementia.
An online study in the UK found that around 70% of 181 adults who had recovered from Covid experienced memory and concentration issues for months after the infection. 75% reported persistent symptoms that were so severe they could not work. Additionally, 50% of the participants said their medical professionals did not take their symptoms seriously.
Another research found that Covid infection can affect memory in the short term, but only in adults over 25. The study also found that memory function can recover over time, but some with ongoing symptoms can have problems with their working memory.
What is working memory?
Working memory is an essential cognitive process that temporarily stores and manipulates information.
As it may imply, working memory is a short-term memory that the individual uses to perform complex tasks such as reasoning, comprehension, and learning. Working memory is composed of several components, including visual and verbal short-term memory, as well as a central executive that helps coordinate and prioritize information. Working memory is vital for many cognitive activities, such as problem-solving, language comprehension, and learning.
How long does memory loss last after Covid?
A neurologist stated that most patients experiencing post-Covid-19 brain fog recover within 6 to 9 months. Although, it is still a researched topic, and it depends on the person’s recovery. Some people recover in days, others in months and even years from post-Covid impacts. If you experienced memory problems before the Covid infection, it might be harder and longer to recover from the cognitive effects of Covid.
A study conducted on Covid patients who did not require hospitalization found that 11% reported experiencing memory issues eight months after their recovery.
Find out the 5 Best Nootropics for Memory.
How to improve memory after Covid
Many strategies can help improve memory loss after Covid, such as regular physical activity, adequate sleep, stress management techniques, and a healthy diet.
Additionally, keeping a daily routine and engaging in mentally stimulating activities can help reduce memory loss. As crucial as that would be to stay connected with family and friends, social support can help to combat the effects of Covid-19 on memory and cognitive functioning.
You can do brain exercises, such as puzzles, crosswords, and other activities that require cognitive effort can help to improve memory and focus. Besides, regular physical exercise can improve overall cognition, including memory.
Another activity to try to work on better cognition is meditation, which has been liked to stress reduction and better focusing.
Consuming Omega-3 fatty acids on either supplementation or foods such as salmon, tuna, and walnuts can help to improve memory. Ginkgo biloba is another healthy approach to better cognition. This herbal supplement seemed to improve cognition dysfunctions such as dementia.
Moreover, foods high in B vitamins are also ideal. B vitamins are proven to be essential for maintaining brain health and can help to improve memory.
To better your memory enhancement journey, it is also recommended to reduce alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can impair memory and cognitive performance.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.