Scientists think they now know what causes long Covid symptoms

A recent study conducted by scientists from the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford has shed light on the underlying cause of long Covid symptoms. The research suggests that symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, and anxiety are all linked to damage inflicted by the virus on the brain’s ‘control centre’. Using ultra-high-resolution MRI scanners, the team examined the brains of 30 individuals who had been hospitalised with severe Covid-19 early in the pandemic, prior to the availability of vaccines.

The study revealed that the Covid-19 infection had affected the brainstem, a crucial region responsible for regulating functions like breath control, heart rate, and reflexes. This damage to the brainstem is believed to be the root cause of persistent symptoms experienced by long Covid patients. The findings, published in the journal Brain, mark a significant step towards understanding the long-term impact of Covid-19 on the brain and overall health.

Dr. Catarina Rua from the Department of Clinical Neurosciences highlighted the importance of these findings, stating that the ability to examine the inflammation in brainstem nuclei in living individuals was previously impossible due to the complexity of the brainstem’s structure. The study’s co-leader, Professor James Rowe, emphasised the role of the brainstem as a crucial link between our conscious selves and bodily functions, underscoring the significance of understanding its changes in response to Covid-19.

The study’s use of 7-Tesla MRI scanners enabled researchers to detect inflammation in the brainstem, particularly in clusters of nerve cells that regulate vital bodily functions. This advanced imaging technology provided new insights into the impact of Covid-19 on the brain, offering a glimpse into the potential long-lasting effects of the virus on patients.

The observed brainstem abnormalities, associated with breathing difficulties, fatigue, and mental health issues, suggest a direct link between brain inflammation following Covid-19 infection and persistent symptoms. The study also raised the possibility of these findings aiding in the understanding of other conditions characterised by brainstem inflammation, such as multiple sclerosis and dementia.

Moreover, the study’s researchers noted that patients with severe early Covid-19 cases exhibited long-term brain changes, likely triggered by the virus-induced immune response. This underscores the need for further research to explore the intricate connection between physical and mental health in individuals affected by Covid-19. The study’s findings offer a promising avenue for developing targeted treatments and interventions to address the lingering effects of the virus on the brain and overall well-being.