Chasing Life with Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s Season 8 is focusing on the brain’s role in various states; from the distracted brain to the frightened brain, the nourished brain, and many more. The podcast is diving deep into understanding what is happening in our heads and how it is affecting our bodies.
In a recent episode of Chasing Life, neuroscientist David Putrino discussed the long-term effects of Covid-19 on the brain. Putrino examined how cognitive function and brain size changed even in those who did not experience long Covid.
A study in Nature in 2022 found alarming changes in the brains of individuals who had contracted Covid-19, contributing to symptoms such as brain fog and post-exertional malaise. These symptoms can plague patients for months and sometimes years after their initial infection, affecting daily activities and well-being.
The National Institute of Health’s RECOVER initiative has identified 12 symptoms that can classify someone as having long Covid, including heart palpitations, chest pain, and changes in sexual desire or capacity. Despite the positive changes in numbers, current estimates suggest that up to 23 million people in the United States may have or still experience long Covid.
One of the most vexing symptoms of long Covid reported by patients is brain fog, which can severely impact daily life. David Putrino, the director of Rehabilitation Innovation at the Mount Sinai Health System, shared some tips for managing long Covid. These tips include rest and pacing, managing dysautonomia, and mast cell activation syndrome. He also recommended using breathwork for symptom management and emphasized the importance of maintaining social connections to prevent social isolation.
The rise of long Covid has posed numerous challenges for individuals living with the condition, healthcare professionals, and researchers. Learning more about the effects on the brain is a crucial step towards finding effective treatments and preventive measures, which has become a key focus in the discussion on Chasing Life.