But what about the mental and neurological health of those actually infected with the disease?
This is where the broader psychological implications of COVID get a little bit trickier.
The verdict is out whether the brain is directly infected or is responsive to body-wide inflammation.
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“Infection with COVID-19 in hospitalized patients has been associated with altered mental status, seizures, and stroke.
Nearly 32% had cognitive dysfunction (encephalopathy).
Strokes can cause serious daily complications.
And those that have had a stroke are at higher risk of developing dementia later in life.
Mental Health Impact
Another long-term consideration is mental health.
The toll of stress and accompanying isolation of contracting COVID can be quite detrimental in and of itself.
Contracting COVID not only affects us physically but [also] affects our mental health in so many ways.
Some survivors have the added sting of being shunned by fearful people.”
This advice applies to those pushing through this time and those who have dealt with the virus firsthand.
Because of the collective fear and uncertainty around COVID-19, the potential for isolation increases.
Sickness can provide an easy reason to self-isolate, but your health will benefit from intentional socializing.
For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit ourcoronavirus news page.
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