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COVID brain fog occurs when all symptoms from the illness have recovered, yet some cognitive challenges remain. The patient’s thinking and memory are still not back to normal. 

The brain fog experienced can have a range of symptoms, and severity can range from mild to severe. Sometimes it can make it hard for patients to live everyday life. 

If you require COVID testing, visit our urgent care Baytown or Urgent Care Crosby. We offer acute care and primary care to meet all of your medical needs. 

What is Brain Fog?

Many patients who have recovered from COVID experience the symptoms of brain fog. One study of over 235,000 patients estimated 33.62% of people had neurological or psychiatric symptoms six months after having COVID.

Brain fog is not necessarily one symptom; it can be a range of symptoms related to thinking and memory. Some people describe an inability to concentrate, focus or think clearly. Others struggle with attention, memory, or just feeling mentally exhausted.

Brain fog can affect one’s ability to begin and finish a task or remember what you were doing when you entered a room. 

What Causes Brain Fog in COVID Patients?

Researchers are still not clear what causes brain fog in COVID patients. Because it is still a new disease, they are still learning about long-term symptoms, including brain fog and how to help patients.

There has been a connection that brain fog is more likely if the patient is severely ill or placed on a ventilator. 

In some people, COVID can directly attack the brain and cause strokes, impairing cognitive function. Also, those who had a severe illness may experience brain damage from hypoxia and inflammation when they were on ventilators. 

Psychological Impact and Brain Fog

Psychological causes are a possibility because of extreme anxiety. This can be increased when family members or friends tell people with brain fog that “it is all in their head.” 

However, the onset of anxiety can be very real, especially when you consider job loss, isolation, and worry if brain fog will affect their future. 

More studies need to be completed to explore whether psychological issues contribute to the worsening of brain fog. People who have brain fog should be reassured that it is a temporary condition and not something that will be long-term. 

What Can You Do to Clear Brain Fog?

First, talk to your provider about your symptoms. Treatment options are similar to those used for people who have had strokes or other cognitive impairments.

The provider will likely do cognitive testing to diagnose the patient’s impairment. Sometimes a referral to a neuropsychologist or speech and language pathologist is necessary. 

Patients can practice brain exercises using computer programs and smartphone apps. 

Other recommendations to help brain fog include: 

• Regular aerobic exercise
• Cognitive challenging games such as puzzles and word puzzles
• Sleep
• Modifying their diets to include monounsaturated fats, plant proteins, whole grains, and fish
• Avoid isolating: stay socially connected to others and active

Brain Fog? COVID Symptoms? We Can Help at our Primary Care.

At our clinic, we treat acute and chronic conditions. Our specialists address your unique needs through every stage of life. PrimeCareMDs in Baytown offers a convenient location to serve you and your family:

PrimeCareMDs in Baytown

2655 West Baker Road

Baytown, Texas 77521

If you require care, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today! 

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.