Neurological issues haunt Covid survivors

According to Dr Narayan the most common neurological problems among Covid survivors are general weakness fatigue and asthenia Representational Image PTINellore Even after having survived Covid-19 many people have to now reckon with new health complications including neurological lingering anxiety depression and other mental health issuesMedical professionals are concerned about the neurological manifestations of Covid which can range from mild fatigue to a life-threatening strokeIn the past few months I have evolved from a simple neurologist to a Covid neurologist Most of the patients whom I am treating are either suffering from Covid infection or are post-Covid cases said Dr P Deekshanti Narayan consultant neurologist in a corporate hospital hereAccording to Dr Narayan the most common neurological problems among Covid survivors are general weakness fatigue and astheniaIntense muscle pains can last from a few days to months depending on the severity of the illnessOne type of headache around the nose and eyes requires special mention as it may as well be fungal sinusitis black fungus which can be fatal she saidPatients are also complaining about reeling sensation and a loss of balance apart from drowsiness irritability altered sensorium that could lead to delirium and coma All these symptoms can also be seen in inflammation of the brain due to encephalitis or inflammation of the brain tissueBrain fog also called brain fatigue decreases mental activity alertness and memoryDr Deekshanti Narayan said Covid predominantly affects blood vessels causing clots in various parts of the body and in the brain causing loss of blood supply to the brain tissue leading to ischemic stroke Sometimes blood vessels can rupture leading to cerebral hemorrhage There is impaired memory especially in people with a degenerative disease like Alzheimers and Parkinsons There is a loss of appetitePsychiatry problems arise due to isolation and self-quarantine Dr Narayan stressed on Covid hygiene which is social distancing wearing masks and using a sanitiser