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A groundbreaking Australian study has discovered that patients suffering from Long Covid and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) experience swelling in a key brain region associated with memory and concentration. The research, published in the scientific journal PLOS ONE on Tuesday, provides new insights into the neurological effects of these conditions.
Researchers from Griffith University in Australia used an ultra-high-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine to analyze the brain structures of individuals with Long Covid and CFS. The study included 17 Long Covid patients, 29 CFS patients, and 15 healthy individuals. The findings revealed a significantly larger hippocampus volume in Long Covid and CFS patients compared to those without these conditions.
The hippocampus is a crucial part of the brain responsible for learning, memory formation, and spatial navigation. The study suggests that hippocampal swelling may be linked to cognitive difficulties, including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and delayed responses in conversations.
Kiran Thapaliya, the study’s lead author, highlighted that the increase in hippocampus size could be attributed to neurogenesis—the process of generating new brain cells—or the presence of a lingering virus in the brain. Additionally, researchers found that individuals with higher hippocampal volume experienced severe symptoms such as impaired concentration, unrestorative sleep, pain, and fatigue.
The study also points to similarities between Long Covid and CFS, suggesting that both conditions may share underlying mechanisms. Researchers believe this could open new avenues for potential treatments targeting both illnesses.
As scientists continue to explore the long-term effects of Covid-19, this study underscores the importance of further research into neurological changes and their impact on cognitive health.
Disclaimer: The findings of this study are based on a limited sample size and should not be taken as definitive evidence. Further research with larger cohorts is required to confirm these results. Individuals experiencing cognitive difficulties or other symptoms should consult healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice.
