COVID-19 AND THE IMPACT ON CONCENTRATION: UNDERSTANDING POST-INFECTION ‘BRAIN FOG’

Abstract

The post-COVID "brain fog," a condition characterized by persistent cognitive deficits, has emerged as an increasing challenge for public health. Patients who survived COVID-19, especially those with severe forms of the disease, report difficulties with memory, impaired attention, and mental fatigue, which directly affect their daily functioning. This study reviewed the scientific literature on the cognitive impact of COVID-19, focusing on evidence regarding the prevalence and possible causes of "brain fog." 24 articles were evaluated, selected from searches in the PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases, with inclusion criteria for studies published between 2020 and 2024, in English or Portuguese. Articles that did not directly address cognitive impact or were not available in full were excluded. The methodology involved a critical analysis of the results, focusing on cohort studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. The results indicated that the prevalence of post-COVID cognitive symptoms is high, with up to 50% of patients affected, particularly those who experienced severe disease. Neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier dysfunction, and psychosocial factors such as anxiety and depression are frequently observed as significant contributors to the development of "brain fog." Furthermore, the condition was more prevalent among women, the elderly, and essential workers. The analysis also highlighted that cognitive and physical rehabilitation may accelerate recovery, although the duration of symptoms and the effectiveness of treatments remain areas with research gaps. The conclusion points to the need for a multidisciplinary approach to treating "brain fog" and the urgency of further research on the long-term impact of COVID-19 on the brain. Additionally, it is recommended that public health policies be implemented to facilitate early diagnosis and access to appropriate treatments for affected patients. The study also emphasizes the importance of investigating the biological and psychosocial causes of this condition to develop more effective interventions.