Living with Long covid cover image

Living with Long covid

Cognitive dysfunction or brain fog? and is this mistaken for mental ill health?

May 7, 2023
The discussion delves into the confusing term 'brain fog' and its implications for those experiencing cognitive dysfunction post-COVID. Key symptoms include memory lapses and difficulty focusing, which are often mischaracterized as mental health issues like anxiety or depression. The speaker shares personal experiences to illustrate the challenges faced in daily life. There’s a strong call for more research and better training for medical professionals to understand and address the multifaceted nature of these symptoms.
33:34

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Cognitive dysfunction in long COVID presents unique challenges, often misidentified as mental health issues, complicating appropriate treatment.
  • Adopting coping strategies like deep breathing and brain training can help manage cognitive symptoms and enhance overall well-being.

Deep dives

Cognitive Dysfunction and Memory Challenges

Living with long COVID often involves significant cognitive dysfunction, which can manifest as difficulties in remembering names and finding the right words during conversations. This struggle is compounded by the experience of losing track of discussions or completely forgetting prior contexts, resulting in frustrating moments of communication that can leave individuals feeling disoriented. For many, this cognitive fog disrupts everyday tasks and social interactions, making familiar places feel alien and complicating independence. The speaker emphasizes how these symptoms go beyond typical forgetfulness, likening their intensity to cognitive impairments seen in intoxication or aging.

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