Could dementia be a consequence of COVID-19? Here’s what scientists have to say

The pandemic is in its third year and the world recently witnessed the third wave of Covid-19 with the Omicron variant. So far, there have been a plethora of symptoms that have been linked to the the existing variants. While most symptoms occur and subside within a few days or weeks, there are others that continue to stay even for months after recovery. Especially after the second wave was brought on by the delta variant, trends of long Covid have been observed.

Long Covid is defined as the condition in which people do not recover for several weeks or months after the start of symptoms which might or might have not confirmed covid. It is also worth noting that symptoms of covid-19 aren’t restricted to the body but it also affects the mind for the viruses that cause respiratory diseases can infect the cells of the nervous system, both peripheral and central. Psychological consequences of Covid-19 include brain fog, anxiety, mood swings, difficulty concentrating or remembering things and insomnia. But does it also pose risks of dementia? Here is all you need to know.

Even though the virus cannot enter the brain because of the presence of the blood-brain barrier, it enters the body through the nose or mouth and travels to the throat, from where it may enter the lungs or other organs. In some cases, the blood brain barrier may be disrupted by the virus and it can enter the surrounding neurons and enter the central nervous system. Increased evidences of covid affecting the neurological make up is increasing.

When it comes to neurological invasions, the covid-19 virus can enter only those cells that have angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). These include excitatory and inhibitory neurons but are also present in small blood vessels in the brain that can potentially act as a place of entry for the virus. Despite all the conversation and research around this topic, it has been found that covid-19 infection can lead to cognitive dysfunction which may continue to exhibit itself for years after the infection was detected.

Studies have shown that increased inflammation affects the nervous system and patients experience delirium, reduced levels of consciousness, strokes and other complications. The higher the inflammation, more severe were the symptoms of covid-19, studies have shown.

So far, studies that have been conducted have shown that there is a bi-directional relationship between dementia and viral infections such as covid-19. People with dementia have been found to be at a greater risk of contracting these viral infections and vice-versa. Thrombosis is also a potent threat to people suffering from covid-19. Thrombosis is a leading cause of strokes and can lead to fatalities in people suffering from covid-19. However, there is no clear answer as to if covid-19 can cause or worsen pre-existing dementia.

Even though there is no definite answer as to if Covid 19 can cause dementia or worsen the existing condition, there is a definite affirmation when it comes to the relation between neurological disturbances and Covid-19. Certain ways in which one can combat the psychological impacts of Covid-19 include being physically active and working out. Participating in cognitively stimulating activities and having regular social participation and interaction is also recommended. In addition to this, a seven to eight hour sleep schedule along with a balanced diet is also extremely beneficial in mitigating the after-effects of Covid-19.