Can COVID increase the risk of seizures and stroke in patients? Expert answers

COVID-19 has been associated with several after-effects, including headaches, nausea, fatigue, difficulty breathing, and an increased risk of seizures and stroke. A few patients, particularly those with prior neurological issues, may experience occasional seizures. This can also happen if the patient has additional stress and anxiety due to COVID, leading to non-epileptic seizures (NES). The number of cases of patients developing seizures during COVID has been very low, but it is not nonexistent.

Dr. Nitti Kapoor Kaushal, Consultant- Neurology, Manipal Hospital Patiala says, “COVID patients have lowered levels of immunity, which makes them susceptible to other infections. The virus has already been associated with causing inflammation in the brain that leaves lingering symptoms like occasional headaches and brain fog, feelings of confusion, and an inability to focus on tasks.”

The risk of stroke tremendously increases if a COVID patient also falls under other risk categories such as old age, critical comorbidities like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disorders, or if they have a family history of disease.

Experiencing seizures and stroke is a dangerous and scary experience. If a COVID patient has noticed the onset of symptoms like fuzziness in the brain, sudden jerks in the limbs, intense mood swings, chest pain, numbness or weakness in the face, or difficulty in speaking, they must immediately bring this to a doctor’s attention.

Lastly, there is still much to research and discover about the COVID virus and its effects on the human body. Therefore, people must always ensure to take proper precautions, such as getting vaccinated timely, practicing proper hygiene, wearing masks in public spaces, and isolating themselves in the presence of any symptoms.