Often, when patients complain of unusual symptoms after an illness, they may be dismissed as a personality issue, but not this time.
Photo by Rory Björkman on UnsplashSince the COVID-19 epidemic started in late 2019, it has affected millions of people all over the world. While the majority of those infected with the virus recover within a few weeks of infection, others experience persistent COVID-19 symptoms. One of the most debilitating COVID-19 symptoms, brain fog, can interfere with daily tasks like work, school, and interpersonal interactions.
The term “brain fog” is used to describe a group of cognitive symptoms that make it difficult to think clearly. NOT dementia, though. Some of these symptoms include difficulty concentrating, memory problems, confusion, and a feeling of mental fatigue. In addition to mental fog, long-term COVID-19 users commonly experience joint pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath.
As a Social Security psychology consultant, I frequently saw MS patients and those with both Chronic Fatigue and Lyme diseases have their claims rejected because the treating physician did not believe the applicants. Anyone who is refused benefits is encouraged to ask for a reconsideration of their case or to contact a disability-benefits law office for assistance. This is an instance of bias, ignorance, or both. You might inquire about the set-by-law attorney's fee before taking any action.
Patients with Long COVID-19 are acknowledged by the Health & Human Services Department of the US Government as being qualified for assistance under Sections 504, 1557, and the ADA. A person with lengthy COVID has a disability, according to their website, “if the person’s disease or any of its symptoms is a ‘physical or mental’ impairment that substantially limits’ one or more major living activities.”
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention state that, “COVID is not a single sickness. Your doctor will investigate a diagnosis of Long COVID based on your medical history, including whether you have previously been identified as having COVID-19 due to symptoms, exposure, a positive test result, or both.” The word “long” is not always capitalized when referring to this element of COVID-19.
What causes the fog that Long COVID-19 patients feel is still a mystery. Some studies suggest that it may be related to the inflammation the virus causes inside the body. Some studies hypothesize that it could be related to the stress that comes with having a chronic condition.
Too many medical professionals have been slow to recognize long-lasting COVID-19 symptoms, such as brain fog, and as a result, patients may find it difficult to receive the appropriate care and assistance.
Several therapies may help long COVID-19 sufferers with their brain fog symptoms. One of these is cognitive behavioral therapy, which can help patients develop coping techniques for symptom management. Another option can help patients find better ways to manage everyday obligations and improve their overall quality of life.
In addition to therapy, COVID-19 patients can change various aspects of their lifestyle to help manage their symptoms. These can consist of exercising frequently, eating healthfully, getting enough sleep, and using stress-relieving techniques like deep breathing or meditation. In fact, anything that lowers stress may be ameliorative because we know that stress and inflammation are connected.
One common and unpleasant COVID-19 symptom, as has been mentioned, is brain fog, despite the fact that its precise cause is still not fully understood. It goes without saying that there is a need for public awareness of the issue, although skeptics of patients’ symptoms will always exist. If so, perhaps a recommendation to someone else is in order.