New Study Finds Brain Swelling Among Long Covid & Chronic Fatigue Patients
Patients with Long Covid and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) tend to have swelling in an area of the brain associated with memory and concentration, according to new research. Scientists from Griffith University in Australia used advanced imaging techniques to analyze how these conditions impact brain structure.
Study Overview
The study used ultra-high-field MRI to examine brain differences in three groups: 17 patients with Long Covid, 29 patients with CFS, and 15 healthy individuals. The goal was to understand whether Long Covid and CFS share common neurological effects.
Enlarged Hippocampus Found in Patients
Researchers found Long Covid and CFS patients had a larger hippocampus, a brain region linked to learning, memory, and focus, suggesting swelling may cause cognitive issues.
Cognitive Symptoms Linked to Brain Swelling
The study linked larger hippocampal volume to more severe symptoms in Long Covid and CFS patients, including memory issues, difficulty concentrating, delayed responses, and increased fatigue and pain.
Possible Reasons for Brain Changes
Researchers suggest that increased hippocampal volume may result from neurogenesis or viral infection, potentially as a response to neurological damage.
What This Means for Future Treatment
The similarities between Long Covid and CFS suggest shared mechanisms, with brain changes offering the potential for new treatments targeting cognitive issues and fatigue.
This study highlights the neurological impact of Long Covid and CFS, showing that brain changes may contribute to the cognitive difficulties patients face. Further research is needed to develop effective treatments and improve the quality of life for those affected by these conditions.