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Long COVID

How Does COVID-19 Affect the Brain?

Effects on the brain may cause both physical and mental symptoms.

Hilary WeissmanMera Goodman, MD, FAAP
Written by Hilary Weissman | Reviewed by Mera Goodman, MD, FAAP
Updated on March 29, 2024
Reviewed by Mera Goodman, MD, FAAP | March 29, 2024

COVID-19 is more than just a respiratory infection. In addition to breathing difficulties, COVID-19 can also affect the brain, nervous system, and mental health. In this video, learn about the different ways COVID-19 may affect your life in the short and long term due to neurological effects.

References

Boldrini, M., et al. (2021). How COVID-19 affects the brain. JAMA Psychiatry.

Graham, E., et al. (2021). Persistent neurologic symptoms and cognitive dysfunction in non-hospitalized COVID-19 ‘long haulers.’ Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology.

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Hilary Weissman
Written by:
Hilary Weissman
Hilary Weissman has been a health writer for the past 6 years. She was a senior copywriter at WW (Weight Watchers) before joining GoodRx and was also a copy editor in S&P Global’s structured finance ratings group for 3 years prior.
Mera Goodman, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician. Prior to practicing medicine, she worked as a management consultant.

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