This archive report was first published on 9 July 2020.
Scientists have made a concerning discovery about the Covid-19 pandemic, linking it to brain damage and disorders in people with mild symptoms.
Published on July 9, 2020, research has shown that doctors may be missing signs of serious and potentially fatal brain disorders triggered by the coronavirus.
The first reported case of brain damage was in the United Kingdom, where a 59-year-old woman died from the condition. Further investigation revealed that more patients had inflammation of the central nervous system, while others had brain disease with delirium.
Brain diseases come in different forms, including infections, trauma, stroke, seizures, and tumours. Trauma, in particular, is a brain injury that causes a temporary disturbance in brain function, sometimes resulting in unconsciousness and confusion.
Brain damage is a type of injury that causes the destruction or deterioration of brain cells. The severity of brain damage can vary, with mild brain injury potentially being temporary, but severe brain injury leading to life-changing and debilitating problems.
Acute respiratory failure, a common complication of Covid-19, can also lead to brain damage when the brain is starved of oxygen for a prolonged period. A study in China found that acute respiratory failure was the leading cause of death for 68 Chinese who had died of Covid-19.
During the pandemic, it's essential to prioritize mental health and social connections. Phone calls or video chats can help maintain social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.