Immune reactions from COVID infections could lead to memory problems and contribute to brain fog, according to research. The preliminary findings by researchers at King’s College London reveals a process which could also trigger delirium in patients.
Scientists analysed blood samples taken from 36 patients who were admitted to Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation in London during the first wave of the pandemic between March and June 2020. A protein released by immune cells was found in infected patients to be 15 times higher than normal. The protein, called IL6, was even higher in patients with delirium, a state of confusion which can lead to an increased risk of dementia.
The report said it is “likely that a major contributing mechanism to the development of neurological symptoms in COVID-19 patients is a hyper-activated immune system”. The research added: “The virus infection is now well-known for its ability to induce an over-reacting immune response.