🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 98 (from laksa124)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa098.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-brain-fog","crawl_time":1775061361,"first_indexed_time":1616022913,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,healthline!www,\/health\/covid-brain-fog s443","src_root_hash":"11478817528691466898","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"COVID-19 Brain Fog: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment","meta_descriptions":["Some people who’ve had COVID-19 report having lingering brain fog. In some cases, brain fog can last many months after the disease has passed."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"The most common symptoms of\nCOVID-19\ninclude fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. However,\nneurological symptoms\n— those that affect your brain and nervous system — are reported in up to\n25 percent\nof people who develop COVID-19.\nLingering “brain fog” is one neurological symptom that people with COVID-19 commonly report. In some cases, brain fog, or cognitive impairment, can last many months after the disease has passed.\nIn this article, we’ll take a closer look at why COVID-19 causes brain fog in some people, how common it is, and when to get help for these neurological issues.\nBrain fog\nisn’t a medical diagnosis. Instead, it’s a general term used to describe the feeling of being mentally slow, fuzzy, or spaced out.\nSymptoms of brain fog can include:\nmemory problems\nlack of mental clarity\npoor concentration\nfeeling “out of it”\nheadaches\nconfusion\nMost people experience periods of brain fog occasionally. You’ve likely felt mentally sluggish after a night of poor sleep or when you’ve been under a lot of stress.\nBut some people who’ve had COVID-19 report brain fog that\nlasts weeks\nor even months after their other symptoms — like cough, fatigue, or fever —have gone away.\nResearchers are still investigating the potential cause of brain fog in people who’ve had COVID-19. It’s thought that both physiological and psychological factors may play a role.\nThe new coronavirus that causes COVID-19, known as SARS-CoV-2, is thought to typically spread through close contact with someone who has the infection. Respiratory droplets from that person can enter your body through your nose, mouth, or eyes.\nOnce in your system, the coronavirus enters cells through an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The virus is neuro-invasive, meaning that it can enter your brain tissue.\nNumerous\ncase studies\nhave found that some people who’ve had COVID-19 develop complications such as altered consciousness or encephalopathy.\nEncephalopathy\nis a general term that refers to damage or disease of your brain.\nA\nstudy\nfrom January 2021 found increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in the fluid surrounding the brains of people weeks after their COVID-19 infection. Cytokines are molecules produced by your immune system that encourage inflammation.\nInflammation in your brain hinders the ability of your neurons to communicate with each other. This may be one of the factors that contributes to brain fog.\nResearchers have also\nidentified\nmicrostructural changes in the hippocampus and other areas of the brain after COVID-19. They believe that these changes may also contribute to cognitive impairments.\nOther factors that may contribute to brain fog\nAs mentioned above, inflammation in and around your brain may contribute to brain fog. However, there are other ways that COVID-19 may indirectly lead to brain fog as well.\nSome possible contributing factors include:\npoor sleep quality\nfeelings of\nloneliness\ndepression\nincreased stress or anxiety\ndietary changes\ndecreased physical activity\nside effects of certain medications\nResearchers are still working to understand how common brain fog is in people who’ve had COVID-19.\nOne recent\nanalysis\nshowed that between 7.5 to 31 percent of people experience an altered mental state as a symptom of COVID-19. However, this estimation was based on small studies and may not be applicable to a larger population.\nAnother recent\nstudy\nreports that neurological symptoms could be more widespread than originally thought and may occur in up to 69 percent of people who’ve had severe illness with COVID-19.\nAt this time, it’s not clear why some people develop brain fog and others don’t. People with severe cases of COVID-19 seem to be at a\nhigher risk\nfor developing neurological symptoms than people with mild disease.\nIt’s still not clear how long brain fog typically lasts after COVID-19. Some people report brain fog that lingers for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms have gone away.\nA\nstudy\npublished in December 2020 found that about 28 percent of people had lingering concentration problems more than 100 days after hospital admission for COVID-19.\nIn another\nstudy\n, researchers found that out of a group of 60 patients who’d recovered from COVID-19, 55 percent still had neurological symptoms 3 months after their illness. These symptoms included:\nmood changes\nfatigue\nheadaches\nvisual disturbances\nAs of now, the best treatment for brain fog caused by COVID-19 is to adopt healthy habits. The following tips may help boost your mental function if you’re dealing with ongoing brain fog.\nResearchers are continuing to look at the potential benefit of steroids for reducing inflammation of the brain that may contribute to cognitive changes.\nIt’s a good idea to see your doctor if your mental symptoms are severe enough that they interfere with your daily life or if they don’t improve after a couple of weeks.\nIf you have COVID-19, it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:\ndifficulty breathing\nongoing pain or pressure in your chest\nrapid heart rate\nnew mental confusion\ntrouble staying awake or difficulty waking\nbluish\nfingernails\nor\nlips\nSome people with COVID-19 report having brain fog for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms pass. It’s thought that a combination of physiological changes in the brain and psychological factors may contribute to this condition.\nResearchers are still trying to understand why some people develop neurological symptoms of COVID-19 and others don’t. If you’ve had COVID-19 and have lingering cognitive issues that affect your ability to think clearly, be sure to follow up with your doctor.","attrs_markdown":"- Health Conditions\n  Health Conditions\n  \n  [All](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/directory\/topics)\n  \n  - [Breast Cancer](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/breast-cancer)\n  - [Cancer Care](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/cancer-care)\n  - [Caregiving for Alzheimer's Disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/alzheimers-disease)\n  - [Chronic Kidney Disease](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/ckd)\n  - [Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/copd)\n  - [Digestive Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/digestive-health)\n  - [Eye Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/eye-health)\n  - [Heart Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/heart-health)\n  - [Menopause](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/menopause)\n  - [Mental Health](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/mental-health)\n  - [Migraine](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/migraine)\n  - 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Join Bezzy on the web or mobile app.\n  \n  [All](https:\/\/www.bezzy.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=nav-bar-connections)\n  \n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Bezzy-Inflammatory-Bowel-Disease.png) Inflammatory Bowel Disease](https:\/\/www.bezzyibd.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Bezzy-Multiple-Sclerosis.png) Multiple Sclerosis](https:\/\/www.bezzyms.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Bezzy-DEP-Icon-Circle.png) Depression](https:\/\/www.bezzydepression.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bezzy-MIG-Icon-Circle.png) Migraine](https:\/\/www.bezzymigraine.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Bezzy-T2D-Icon-Circle.png) Type 2 Diabetes](https:\/\/www.bezzyt2d.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  - [![](https:\/\/media.post.rvohealth.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Bezzy-PsO.png) Psoriasis](https:\/\/www.bezzypsoriasis.com\/?utm_source=healthline&utm_medium=hl-nav-bar-connections)\n  \n  Follow us on social media\n  \n  Can't get enough? Connect with us for all things health.\n\nSubscribe\n\n# What to Know About COVID-19 and Brain Fog\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Cameron-White-MD-MPH-Mary-Morrison_edit.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Cameron White, M.D., MPH]() — Written by Daniel Yetman  on March 17, 2021\n\n- [About](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-brain-fog#about)\n- [Causes](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-brain-fog#causes)\n- [Prevalence](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-brain-fog#prevalence)\n- [Duration](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-brain-fog#duration)\n- [Treatment](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-brain-fog#treatment)\n- [Care](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-brain-fog#care)\n- [Summary](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/covid-brain-fog#summary)\n\n![A man stands outdoors with big clouds above his head. ](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/head-in-the-clouds-concept-1296x728-header.jpg?w=1155&h=1528)\n\n[Share on Pinterest](https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/pin\/create\/button\/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthline.com%2Fhealth%2Fcovid-brain-fog&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.healthline.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F03%2Fhead-in-the-clouds-concept-1296x728-header.jpg&description=COVID-19%20Brain%20Fog%3A%20Symptoms%2C%20Causes%2C%20Treatment \"Share on Pinterest\")\n\nJoe + Kathrina\/Stocksy United\n\nThe most common symptoms of [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/coronavirus) include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. However, [neurological symptoms](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/the-covid-19-symptoms-most-people-could-miss#Delirium,-dizziness,-or-muscle-weakness) — those that affect your brain and nervous system — are reported in up to [25 percent](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7798003\/) of people who develop COVID-19.\n\nLingering “brain fog” is one neurological symptom that people with COVID-19 commonly report. In some cases, brain fog, or cognitive impairment, can last many months after the disease has passed.\n\nIn this article, we’ll take a closer look at why COVID-19 causes brain fog in some people, how common it is, and when to get help for these neurological issues.\n\n## [What is COVID-19 brain fog?]()\n[Brain fog](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/brain-fog) isn’t a medical diagnosis. Instead, it’s a general term used to describe the feeling of being mentally slow, fuzzy, or spaced out.\n\nSymptoms of brain fog can include:\n\n- [memory problems](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/short-term-memory-loss)\n- lack of mental clarity\n- [poor concentration](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/unable-to-concentrate)\n- feeling “out of it”\n- headaches\n- [confusion](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/confusion)\n\nMost people experience periods of brain fog occasionally. You’ve likely felt mentally sluggish after a night of poor sleep or when you’ve been under a lot of stress.\n\nBut some people who’ve had COVID-19 report brain fog that [lasts weeks](https:\/\/www.mskcc.org\/news\/msk-researchers-learn-what-s-driving-brain-fog-people-covid-19) or even months after their other symptoms — like cough, fatigue, or fever —have gone away.\n\n## [Why COVID-19 causes brain fog]()\nResearchers are still investigating the potential cause of brain fog in people who’ve had COVID-19. It’s thought that both physiological and psychological factors may play a role.\n\nThe new coronavirus that causes COVID-19, known as SARS-CoV-2, is thought to typically spread through close contact with someone who has the infection. Respiratory droplets from that person can enter your body through your nose, mouth, or eyes.\n\nOnce in your system, the coronavirus enters cells through an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The virus is neuro-invasive, meaning that it can enter your brain tissue.\n\nNumerous [case studies](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7273036\/) have found that some people who’ve had COVID-19 develop complications such as altered consciousness or encephalopathy. [Encephalopathy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/hepatic-encephalopathy) is a general term that refers to damage or disease of your brain.\n\nA [study](https:\/\/www.cell.com\/cancer-cell\/fulltext\/S1535-6108\\(21\\)00051-9) from January 2021 found increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in the fluid surrounding the brains of people weeks after their COVID-19 infection. Cytokines are molecules produced by your immune system that encourage inflammation.\n\nInflammation in your brain hinders the ability of your neurons to communicate with each other. This may be one of the factors that contributes to brain fog.\n\nResearchers have also [identified](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7533666\/) microstructural changes in the hippocampus and other areas of the brain after COVID-19. They believe that these changes may also contribute to cognitive impairments.\n\n### Other factors that may contribute to brain fog\nAs mentioned above, inflammation in and around your brain may contribute to brain fog. However, there are other ways that COVID-19 may indirectly lead to brain fog as well.\n\nSome possible contributing factors include:\n\n- [poor sleep quality](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep-deprivation\/effects-on-body)\n- feelings of [loneliness](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/chronic-loneliness)\n- [depression](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/depression)\n- [increased stress or anxiety](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/brain-fog-anxiety)\n- dietary changes\n- decreased physical activity\n- side effects of certain medications\n\n## [How common is it?]()\nResearchers are still working to understand how common brain fog is in people who’ve had COVID-19.\n\nOne recent [analysis](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7889402\/) showed that between 7.5 to 31 percent of people experience an altered mental state as a symptom of COVID-19. However, this estimation was based on small studies and may not be applicable to a larger population.\n\nAnother recent [study](https:\/\/www.cell.com\/cancer-cell\/fulltext\/S1535-6108\\(21\\)00051-9) reports that neurological symptoms could be more widespread than originally thought and may occur in up to 69 percent of people who’ve had severe illness with COVID-19.\n\nAt this time, it’s not clear why some people develop brain fog and others don’t. People with severe cases of COVID-19 seem to be at a [higher risk](https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamaneurology\/fullarticle\/2764549) for developing neurological symptoms than people with mild disease.\n\n[Severe brain-related complications](https:\/\/www.cell.com\/cancer-cell\/fulltext\/S1535-6108\\(21\\)00051-9) such as [delirium](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/delirium), [seizure](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/seizures), and inflammation of the brain and surrounding tissues are most common in critically ill patients.\n\n## [How long does it usually last?]()\nIt’s still not clear how long brain fog typically lasts after COVID-19. Some people report brain fog that lingers for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms have gone away.\n\nA [study](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7445491\/) published in December 2020 found that about 28 percent of people had lingering concentration problems more than 100 days after hospital admission for COVID-19.\n\nIn another [study](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7527190\/), researchers found that out of a group of 60 patients who’d recovered from COVID-19, 55 percent still had neurological symptoms 3 months after their illness. These symptoms included:\n\n- mood changes\n- fatigue\n- headaches\n- visual disturbances\n\n## [What helps with treating brain fog caused by COVID-19?]()\nAs of now, the best treatment for brain fog caused by COVID-19 is to adopt healthy habits. The following tips may help boost your mental function if you’re dealing with ongoing brain fog.\n\n- **Get plenty of sleep.** Getting good quality sleep can help your body repair and recover.\n- **Get regular exercise.** Physical activity isn’t only beneficial to your heart and lungs, it’s also a great way to boost your brain function.\n- **Eat well.** Try to eat a [well-balanced, healthy diet](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/balanced-diet) to give your body the nourishment it needs to return to good health.\n- **Avoid tobacco and alcohol.** Staying away from tobacco products and alcohol can help minimize inflammation in your brain.\n\nResearchers are continuing to look at the potential benefit of steroids for reducing inflammation of the brain that may contribute to cognitive changes.\n\n## [When should you see a doctor about your symptoms?]()\nIt’s a good idea to see your doctor if your mental symptoms are severe enough that they interfere with your daily life or if they don’t improve after a couple of weeks.\n\nIf you have COVID-19, it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:\n\n- [difficulty breathing](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/breathing-difficulties)\n- ongoing pain or pressure in your chest\n- rapid heart rate\n- new mental confusion\n- trouble staying awake or difficulty waking\n- bluish [fingernails](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/blue-fingernails) or [lips](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/blue-lips)\n\n## [The bottom line]()\nSome people with COVID-19 report having brain fog for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms pass. It’s thought that a combination of physiological changes in the brain and psychological factors may contribute to this condition.\n\nResearchers are still trying to understand why some people develop neurological symptoms of COVID-19 and others don’t. If you’ve had COVID-19 and have lingering cognitive issues that affect your ability to think clearly, be sure to follow up with your doctor.\n\n### How we reviewed this article:\nSources\n\nHistory\n\nHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/process).\n\n- COVID-19 symptoms. (2021).  \n  <https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/coronavirus\/2019-ncov\/symptoms-testing\/symptoms.html>\n- Garrigues E, et al. (2020). Post-discharge persistent symptoms and health-related quality of life after hospitalization for COVID-19.  \n  <https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.jinf.2020.08.029>\n- Mao L, et al. (2020). Neurologic manifestations of hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 in Wuhan, China.  \n  <https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamaneurology\/fullarticle\/2764549>\n- Morley JE. (2020). COVID-19 — The long road to recovery. DOI:  \n  <https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1007\/s12603-020-1473-6>\n- MSK researchers learn what’s driving ‘Brain fog’ in people with COVID-19. (2021).  \n  <https:\/\/www.mskcc.org\/news\/msk-researchers-learn-what-s-driving-brain-fog-people-covid-19>\n- Ni W, et al. (2020). Role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in COVID-19.  \n  <https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7356137\/>\n- Remsik J, et al. (2021). Inflammatory leptomeningeal cytokines mediate COVID-19 neurologic symptoms in cancer patients.  \n  <https:\/\/www.cell.com\/cancer-cell\/fulltext\/S1535-6108(21)00051-9>\n- Understanding the long-term health effects of COVID-19. (2020). DOI:  \n  <https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1016\/j.eclinm.2020.100586>\n- Walitt B, et al. (2021). A clinical primer for the expected and potential post-COVID-19 syndromes. DOI:  \n  <https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1097\/PR9.0000000000000887>\n- Whittaker A, et al. (2020). Neurological manifestations of COVID-19: A systematic review and current update. DOI:  \n  <https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1111\/ane.13266>\n\nShare this article\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/post.healthline.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Cameron-White-MD-MPH-Mary-Morrison_edit.png?w=105&h=105)\n\n[Medically reviewed]() by [Cameron White, M.D., MPH]() — Written by Daniel Yetman  on March 17, 2021\n\n## related stories\n- [Can Diabetes Cause Brain Fog?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/diabetes\/brain-fog-diabetes?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [13 Things That Happen When You Have Brain Fog](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/13-things-only-someone-with-brain-fog-would-understand?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Can a Loss of Taste and Smell Be a Symptom of COVID-19?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/coronavirus-loss-of-taste-loss-of-smell?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Loss of Smell Associated with Milder COVID-19 Cases](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/loss-of-smell-associated-with-milder-covid-19-cases?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What to Know About Nipah Virus Infection](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-is-nipah-virus?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n### Read this next\n- [Can Diabetes Cause Brain Fog?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/diabetes\/brain-fog-diabetes?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Marina Basina, MD](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Brain fog is a symptom of fluctuating blood sugar levels when you have diabetes. Both high and low blood sugar can cause cognitive issues.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/diabetes\/brain-fog-diabetes?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/diabetes\/brain-fog-diabetes?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [13 Things That Happen When You Have Brain Fog](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/13-things-only-someone-with-brain-fog-would-understand?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Dealing with brain fog is no easy feat. If you or a loved one lives with fibromyalgia, here are 13 things you'll be able to relate to.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/13-things-only-someone-with-brain-fog-would-understand?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/13-things-only-someone-with-brain-fog-would-understand?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Can a Loss of Taste and Smell Be a Symptom of COVID-19?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/coronavirus-loss-of-taste-loss-of-smell?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Cameron White, M.D., MPH](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [A loss of smell and taste can occur suddenly in some people with COVID-19 and is often a symptom that develops early, sometimes before other…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/coronavirus-loss-of-taste-loss-of-smell?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/coronavirus-loss-of-taste-loss-of-smell?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Loss of Smell Associated with Milder COVID-19 Cases](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/loss-of-smell-associated-with-milder-covid-19-cases?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [A new study finds that roughly 86 percent of people with COVID-19 lose their sense of smell. However, this happened much more frequently in patients…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/loss-of-smell-associated-with-milder-covid-19-cases?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/loss-of-smell-associated-with-milder-covid-19-cases?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What to Know About Nipah Virus Infection](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-is-nipah-virus?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Nipah virus is a serious zoonotic virus that causes flu-like symptoms, as well as complicatins such as encephalitis. Learn more here.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-is-nipah-virus?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-is-nipah-virus?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What Blood Types do Mosquitos Prefer?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-blood-types-do-mosquitos-like-best?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Mosquitoes are mostly attracted to type O blood type. Read more.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-blood-types-do-mosquitos-like-best?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-blood-types-do-mosquitos-like-best?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What Are the Symptoms of Zika Virus, and When to See a Doctor](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/zika-virus-symptoms?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Symptoms of Zika virus are typically mild and may include fever, rash, and joint pain. For most people, symptoms are not harmful, but the virus can…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/zika-virus-symptoms?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/zika-virus-symptoms?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [How Does Mpox Spread?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-is-mpox-spread?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Mpox spreads through close contact, such as skin-to-skin or mouth-to-mouth contact. Learn more here.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-is-mpox-spread?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/how-is-mpox-spread?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [Why Rheumatic Fever Causes Heart Inflammation (Carditis)](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/carditis-in-rheumatic-fever?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [Rheumatic fever (RF) can lead to inflammation in various parts of the body, such as the joints, skin, brain, and heart. Heart inflammation is called…](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/carditis-in-rheumatic-fever?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/carditis-in-rheumatic-fever?utm_source=ReadNext)\n- [What’s the Difference Between Rheumatic Fever and Scarlet Fever?](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/rheumatic-fever-vs-scarlet-fever?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  Medically reviewed by [Meredith Goodwin, MD, FAAFP](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n  \n  [Rheumatic fever and scarlet fever are caused by the same bacteria, but they present with different symptoms and complications.](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/rheumatic-fever-vs-scarlet-fever?utm_source=ReadNext)\n  \n  [READ MORE](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/rheumatic-fever-vs-scarlet-fever?utm_source=ReadNext)\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/contact-us)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/privacy-policy)\n- Privacy Settings\n- [Advertising Policy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/advertising-policy)\n- [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/directory\/topics)\n\n- [Sitemap](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/sitemap)\n- [Medical Affairs](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/medical-team)\n- [Content Integrity](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/about\/content-integrity)\n- [Newsletters](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/newsletter-signup)\n- © 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n© 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/additional-information).\n\n[About](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about)[Careers](https:\/\/rvohealth.com\/careers)[Advertise with us](https:\/\/www.healthlinemedia.com\/advertise?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise)\n\nOUR BRANDS\n\n[Healthline](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/)[Medical News Today](https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/)[Greatist](https:\/\/greatist.com\/)[Psych Central](https:\/\/psychcentral.com\/)[Bezzy](https:\/\/bezzy.com\/)\n\n![](http:\/\/b.scorecardresearch.com\/p?c1=2&c2=38584006&cv=3.9&cj=1&comscorekw=main)","attrs_readable_markdown":"The most common symptoms of [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/coronavirus) include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. However, [neurological symptoms](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health-news\/the-covid-19-symptoms-most-people-could-miss#Delirium,-dizziness,-or-muscle-weakness) — those that affect your brain and nervous system — are reported in up to [25 percent](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7798003\/) of people who develop COVID-19.\n\nLingering “brain fog” is one neurological symptom that people with COVID-19 commonly report. In some cases, brain fog, or cognitive impairment, can last many months after the disease has passed.\n\nIn this article, we’ll take a closer look at why COVID-19 causes brain fog in some people, how common it is, and when to get help for these neurological issues.\n\n[Brain fog](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/brain-fog) isn’t a medical diagnosis. Instead, it’s a general term used to describe the feeling of being mentally slow, fuzzy, or spaced out.\n\nSymptoms of brain fog can include:\n\n- [memory problems](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/short-term-memory-loss)\n- lack of mental clarity\n- [poor concentration](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/unable-to-concentrate)\n- feeling “out of it”\n- headaches\n- [confusion](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/confusion)\n\nMost people experience periods of brain fog occasionally. You’ve likely felt mentally sluggish after a night of poor sleep or when you’ve been under a lot of stress.\n\nBut some people who’ve had COVID-19 report brain fog that [lasts weeks](https:\/\/www.mskcc.org\/news\/msk-researchers-learn-what-s-driving-brain-fog-people-covid-19) or even months after their other symptoms — like cough, fatigue, or fever —have gone away.\n\nResearchers are still investigating the potential cause of brain fog in people who’ve had COVID-19. It’s thought that both physiological and psychological factors may play a role.\n\nThe new coronavirus that causes COVID-19, known as SARS-CoV-2, is thought to typically spread through close contact with someone who has the infection. Respiratory droplets from that person can enter your body through your nose, mouth, or eyes.\n\nOnce in your system, the coronavirus enters cells through an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The virus is neuro-invasive, meaning that it can enter your brain tissue.\n\nNumerous [case studies](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7273036\/) have found that some people who’ve had COVID-19 develop complications such as altered consciousness or encephalopathy. [Encephalopathy](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/hepatic-encephalopathy) is a general term that refers to damage or disease of your brain.\n\nA [study](https:\/\/www.cell.com\/cancer-cell\/fulltext\/S1535-6108\\(21\\)00051-9) from January 2021 found increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in the fluid surrounding the brains of people weeks after their COVID-19 infection. Cytokines are molecules produced by your immune system that encourage inflammation.\n\nInflammation in your brain hinders the ability of your neurons to communicate with each other. This may be one of the factors that contributes to brain fog.\n\nResearchers have also [identified](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7533666\/) microstructural changes in the hippocampus and other areas of the brain after COVID-19. They believe that these changes may also contribute to cognitive impairments.\n\nOther factors that may contribute to brain fog\n\nAs mentioned above, inflammation in and around your brain may contribute to brain fog. However, there are other ways that COVID-19 may indirectly lead to brain fog as well.\n\nSome possible contributing factors include:\n\n- [poor sleep quality](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/sleep-deprivation\/effects-on-body)\n- feelings of [loneliness](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/mental-health\/chronic-loneliness)\n- [depression](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/depression)\n- [increased stress or anxiety](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/brain-fog-anxiety)\n- dietary changes\n- decreased physical activity\n- side effects of certain medications\n\nResearchers are still working to understand how common brain fog is in people who’ve had COVID-19.\n\nOne recent [analysis](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7889402\/) showed that between 7.5 to 31 percent of people experience an altered mental state as a symptom of COVID-19. However, this estimation was based on small studies and may not be applicable to a larger population.\n\nAnother recent [study](https:\/\/www.cell.com\/cancer-cell\/fulltext\/S1535-6108\\(21\\)00051-9) reports that neurological symptoms could be more widespread than originally thought and may occur in up to 69 percent of people who’ve had severe illness with COVID-19.\n\nAt this time, it’s not clear why some people develop brain fog and others don’t. People with severe cases of COVID-19 seem to be at a [higher risk](https:\/\/jamanetwork.com\/journals\/jamaneurology\/fullarticle\/2764549) for developing neurological symptoms than people with mild disease.\n\nIt’s still not clear how long brain fog typically lasts after COVID-19. Some people report brain fog that lingers for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms have gone away.\n\nA [study](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7445491\/) published in December 2020 found that about 28 percent of people had lingering concentration problems more than 100 days after hospital admission for COVID-19.\n\nIn another [study](https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7527190\/), researchers found that out of a group of 60 patients who’d recovered from COVID-19, 55 percent still had neurological symptoms 3 months after their illness. These symptoms included:\n\n- mood changes\n- fatigue\n- headaches\n- visual disturbances\n\nAs of now, the best treatment for brain fog caused by COVID-19 is to adopt healthy habits. The following tips may help boost your mental function if you’re dealing with ongoing brain fog.\n\nResearchers are continuing to look at the potential benefit of steroids for reducing inflammation of the brain that may contribute to cognitive changes.\n\nIt’s a good idea to see your doctor if your mental symptoms are severe enough that they interfere with your daily life or if they don’t improve after a couple of weeks.\n\nIf you have COVID-19, it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:\n\n- [difficulty breathing](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/breathing-difficulties)\n- ongoing pain or pressure in your chest\n- rapid heart rate\n- new mental confusion\n- trouble staying awake or difficulty waking\n- bluish [fingernails](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/blue-fingernails) or [lips](https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/blue-lips)\n\nSome people with COVID-19 report having brain fog for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms pass. It’s thought that a combination of physiological changes in the brain and psychological factors may contribute to this condition.\n\nResearchers are still trying to understand why some people develop neurological symptoms of COVID-19 and others don’t. If you’ve had COVID-19 and have lingering cognitive issues that affect your ability to think clearly, be sure to follow up with your doctor.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	COVID-19 Brain Fog: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
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Boilerpipe Text	The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. However, neurological symptoms — those that affect your brain and nervous system — are reported in up to 25 percent of people who develop COVID-19. Lingering “brain fog” is one neurological symptom that people with COVID-19 commonly report. In some cases, brain fog, or cognitive impairment, can last many months after the disease has passed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why COVID-19 causes brain fog in some people, how common it is, and when to get help for these neurological issues. Brain fog isn’t a medical diagnosis. Instead, it’s a general term used to describe the feeling of being mentally slow, fuzzy, or spaced out. Symptoms of brain fog can include: memory problems lack of mental clarity poor concentration feeling “out of it” headaches confusion Most people experience periods of brain fog occasionally. You’ve likely felt mentally sluggish after a night of poor sleep or when you’ve been under a lot of stress. But some people who’ve had COVID-19 report brain fog that lasts weeks or even months after their other symptoms — like cough, fatigue, or fever —have gone away. Researchers are still investigating the potential cause of brain fog in people who’ve had COVID-19. It’s thought that both physiological and psychological factors may play a role. The new coronavirus that causes COVID-19, known as SARS-CoV-2, is thought to typically spread through close contact with someone who has the infection. Respiratory droplets from that person can enter your body through your nose, mouth, or eyes. Once in your system, the coronavirus enters cells through an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The virus is neuro-invasive, meaning that it can enter your brain tissue. Numerous case studies have found that some people who’ve had COVID-19 develop complications such as altered consciousness or encephalopathy. Encephalopathy is a general term that refers to damage or disease of your brain. A study from January 2021 found increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in the fluid surrounding the brains of people weeks after their COVID-19 infection. Cytokines are molecules produced by your immune system that encourage inflammation. Inflammation in your brain hinders the ability of your neurons to communicate with each other. This may be one of the factors that contributes to brain fog. Researchers have also identified microstructural changes in the hippocampus and other areas of the brain after COVID-19. They believe that these changes may also contribute to cognitive impairments. Other factors that may contribute to brain fog As mentioned above, inflammation in and around your brain may contribute to brain fog. However, there are other ways that COVID-19 may indirectly lead to brain fog as well. Some possible contributing factors include: poor sleep quality feelings of loneliness depression increased stress or anxiety dietary changes decreased physical activity side effects of certain medications Researchers are still working to understand how common brain fog is in people who’ve had COVID-19. One recent analysis showed that between 7.5 to 31 percent of people experience an altered mental state as a symptom of COVID-19. However, this estimation was based on small studies and may not be applicable to a larger population. Another recent study reports that neurological symptoms could be more widespread than originally thought and may occur in up to 69 percent of people who’ve had severe illness with COVID-19. At this time, it’s not clear why some people develop brain fog and others don’t. People with severe cases of COVID-19 seem to be at a higher risk for developing neurological symptoms than people with mild disease. It’s still not clear how long brain fog typically lasts after COVID-19. Some people report brain fog that lingers for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms have gone away. A study published in December 2020 found that about 28 percent of people had lingering concentration problems more than 100 days after hospital admission for COVID-19. In another study , researchers found that out of a group of 60 patients who’d recovered from COVID-19, 55 percent still had neurological symptoms 3 months after their illness. These symptoms included: mood changes fatigue headaches visual disturbances As of now, the best treatment for brain fog caused by COVID-19 is to adopt healthy habits. The following tips may help boost your mental function if you’re dealing with ongoing brain fog. Researchers are continuing to look at the potential benefit of steroids for reducing inflammation of the brain that may contribute to cognitive changes. It’s a good idea to see your doctor if your mental symptoms are severe enough that they interfere with your daily life or if they don’t improve after a couple of weeks. If you have COVID-19, it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms: difficulty breathing ongoing pain or pressure in your chest rapid heart rate new mental confusion trouble staying awake or difficulty waking bluish fingernails or lips Some people with COVID-19 report having brain fog for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms pass. It’s thought that a combination of physiological changes in the brain and psychological factors may contribute to this condition. Researchers are still trying to understand why some people develop neurological symptoms of COVID-19 and others don’t. If you’ve had COVID-19 and have lingering cognitive issues that affect your ability to think clearly, be sure to follow up with your doctor.
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Subscribe # What to Know About COVID-19 and Brain Fog ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Cameron-White-MD-MPH-Mary-Morrison_edit.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Cameron White, M.D., MPH]() — Written by Daniel Yetman on March 17, 2021 - [About](https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog#about) - [Causes](https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog#causes) - [Prevalence](https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog#prevalence) - [Duration](https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog#duration) - [Treatment](https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog#treatment) - [Care](https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog#care) - [Summary](https://www.healthline.com/health/covid-brain-fog#summary) ![A man stands outdoors with big clouds above his head. ](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/head-in-the-clouds-concept-1296x728-header.jpg?w=1155&h=1528) [Share on Pinterest](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthline.com%2Fhealth%2Fcovid-brain-fog&media=https%3A%2F%2Fpost.healthline.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F03%2Fhead-in-the-clouds-concept-1296x728-header.jpg&description=COVID-19%20Brain%20Fog%3A%20Symptoms%2C%20Causes%2C%20Treatment "Share on Pinterest") Joe + Kathrina/Stocksy United The most common symptoms of [COVID-19](https://www.healthline.com/coronavirus) include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. However, [neurological symptoms](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/the-covid-19-symptoms-most-people-could-miss#Delirium,-dizziness,-or-muscle-weakness) — those that affect your brain and nervous system — are reported in up to [25 percent](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7798003/) of people who develop COVID-19. Lingering “brain fog” is one neurological symptom that people with COVID-19 commonly report. In some cases, brain fog, or cognitive impairment, can last many months after the disease has passed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why COVID-19 causes brain fog in some people, how common it is, and when to get help for these neurological issues. ## [What is COVID-19 brain fog?]() [Brain fog](https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-fog) isn’t a medical diagnosis. Instead, it’s a general term used to describe the feeling of being mentally slow, fuzzy, or spaced out. Symptoms of brain fog can include: - [memory problems](https://www.healthline.com/health/short-term-memory-loss) - lack of mental clarity - [poor concentration](https://www.healthline.com/health/unable-to-concentrate) - feeling “out of it” - headaches - [confusion](https://www.healthline.com/health/confusion) Most people experience periods of brain fog occasionally. You’ve likely felt mentally sluggish after a night of poor sleep or when you’ve been under a lot of stress. But some people who’ve had COVID-19 report brain fog that [lasts weeks](https://www.mskcc.org/news/msk-researchers-learn-what-s-driving-brain-fog-people-covid-19) or even months after their other symptoms — like cough, fatigue, or fever —have gone away. ## [Why COVID-19 causes brain fog]() Researchers are still investigating the potential cause of brain fog in people who’ve had COVID-19. It’s thought that both physiological and psychological factors may play a role. The new coronavirus that causes COVID-19, known as SARS-CoV-2, is thought to typically spread through close contact with someone who has the infection. Respiratory droplets from that person can enter your body through your nose, mouth, or eyes. Once in your system, the coronavirus enters cells through an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The virus is neuro-invasive, meaning that it can enter your brain tissue. Numerous [case studies](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7273036/) have found that some people who’ve had COVID-19 develop complications such as altered consciousness or encephalopathy. [Encephalopathy](https://www.healthline.com/health/hepatic-encephalopathy) is a general term that refers to damage or disease of your brain. A [study](https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108\(21\)00051-9) from January 2021 found increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in the fluid surrounding the brains of people weeks after their COVID-19 infection. Cytokines are molecules produced by your immune system that encourage inflammation. Inflammation in your brain hinders the ability of your neurons to communicate with each other. This may be one of the factors that contributes to brain fog. Researchers have also [identified](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7533666/) microstructural changes in the hippocampus and other areas of the brain after COVID-19. They believe that these changes may also contribute to cognitive impairments. ### Other factors that may contribute to brain fog As mentioned above, inflammation in and around your brain may contribute to brain fog. However, there are other ways that COVID-19 may indirectly lead to brain fog as well. Some possible contributing factors include: - [poor sleep quality](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-deprivation/effects-on-body) - feelings of [loneliness](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/chronic-loneliness) - [depression](https://www.healthline.com/health/depression) - [increased stress or anxiety](https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-fog-anxiety) - dietary changes - decreased physical activity - side effects of certain medications ## [How common is it?]() Researchers are still working to understand how common brain fog is in people who’ve had COVID-19. One recent [analysis](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7889402/) showed that between 7.5 to 31 percent of people experience an altered mental state as a symptom of COVID-19. However, this estimation was based on small studies and may not be applicable to a larger population. Another recent [study](https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108\(21\)00051-9) reports that neurological symptoms could be more widespread than originally thought and may occur in up to 69 percent of people who’ve had severe illness with COVID-19. At this time, it’s not clear why some people develop brain fog and others don’t. People with severe cases of COVID-19 seem to be at a [higher risk](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2764549) for developing neurological symptoms than people with mild disease. [Severe brain-related complications](https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108\(21\)00051-9) such as [delirium](https://www.healthline.com/health/delirium), [seizure](https://www.healthline.com/health/seizures), and inflammation of the brain and surrounding tissues are most common in critically ill patients. ## [How long does it usually last?]() It’s still not clear how long brain fog typically lasts after COVID-19. Some people report brain fog that lingers for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms have gone away. A [study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7445491/) published in December 2020 found that about 28 percent of people had lingering concentration problems more than 100 days after hospital admission for COVID-19. In another [study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7527190/), researchers found that out of a group of 60 patients who’d recovered from COVID-19, 55 percent still had neurological symptoms 3 months after their illness. These symptoms included: - mood changes - fatigue - headaches - visual disturbances ## [What helps with treating brain fog caused by COVID-19?]() As of now, the best treatment for brain fog caused by COVID-19 is to adopt healthy habits. The following tips may help boost your mental function if you’re dealing with ongoing brain fog. - Get plenty of sleep. Getting good quality sleep can help your body repair and recover. - Get regular exercise. Physical activity isn’t only beneficial to your heart and lungs, it’s also a great way to boost your brain function. - Eat well. Try to eat a [well-balanced, healthy diet](https://www.healthline.com/health/balanced-diet) to give your body the nourishment it needs to return to good health. - Avoid tobacco and alcohol. Staying away from tobacco products and alcohol can help minimize inflammation in your brain. Researchers are continuing to look at the potential benefit of steroids for reducing inflammation of the brain that may contribute to cognitive changes. ## [When should you see a doctor about your symptoms?]() It’s a good idea to see your doctor if your mental symptoms are severe enough that they interfere with your daily life or if they don’t improve after a couple of weeks. If you have COVID-19, it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms: - [difficulty breathing](https://www.healthline.com/health/breathing-difficulties) - ongoing pain or pressure in your chest - rapid heart rate - new mental confusion - trouble staying awake or difficulty waking - bluish [fingernails](https://www.healthline.com/health/blue-fingernails) or [lips](https://www.healthline.com/health/blue-lips) ## [The bottom line]() Some people with COVID-19 report having brain fog for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms pass. It’s thought that a combination of physiological changes in the brain and psychological factors may contribute to this condition. Researchers are still trying to understand why some people develop neurological symptoms of COVID-19 and others don’t. If you’ve had COVID-19 and have lingering cognitive issues that affect your ability to think clearly, be sure to follow up with your doctor. ### How we reviewed this article: Sources History Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.healthline.com/about/process). - COVID-19 symptoms. (2021). <https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html> - Garrigues E, et al. (2020). Post-discharge persistent symptoms and health-related quality of life after hospitalization for COVID-19. <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jinf.2020.08.029> - Mao L, et al. (2020). Neurologic manifestations of hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 in Wuhan, China. <https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2764549> - Morley JE. (2020). COVID-19 — The long road to recovery. DOI: <https://doi.org/10.1007/s12603-020-1473-6> - MSK researchers learn what’s driving ‘Brain fog’ in people with COVID-19. (2021). <https://www.mskcc.org/news/msk-researchers-learn-what-s-driving-brain-fog-people-covid-19> - Ni W, et al. (2020). Role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) in COVID-19. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7356137/> - Remsik J, et al. (2021). Inflammatory leptomeningeal cytokines mediate COVID-19 neurologic symptoms in cancer patients. <https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108(21)00051-9> - Understanding the long-term health effects of COVID-19. (2020). DOI: <https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2020.100586> - Walitt B, et al. (2021). A clinical primer for the expected and potential post-COVID-19 syndromes. DOI: <https://doi.org/10.1097/PR9.0000000000000887> - Whittaker A, et al. (2020). Neurological manifestations of COVID-19: A systematic review and current update. DOI: <https://doi.org/10.1111/ane.13266> Share this article ![](https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Cameron-White-MD-MPH-Mary-Morrison_edit.png?w=105&h=105) [Medically reviewed]() by [Cameron White, M.D., MPH]() — Written by Daniel Yetman on March 17, 2021 ## related stories - [Can Diabetes Cause Brain Fog?](https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/brain-fog-diabetes?utm_source=ReadNext) - [13 Things That Happen When You Have Brain Fog](https://www.healthline.com/health/13-things-only-someone-with-brain-fog-would-understand?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can a Loss of Taste and Smell Be a Symptom of COVID-19?](https://www.healthline.com/health/coronavirus-loss-of-taste-loss-of-smell?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Loss of Smell Associated with Milder COVID-19 Cases](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/loss-of-smell-associated-with-milder-covid-19-cases?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What to Know About Nipah Virus Infection](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-nipah-virus?utm_source=ReadNext) ### Read this next - [Can Diabetes Cause Brain Fog?](https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/brain-fog-diabetes?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Marina Basina, MD](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Brain fog is a symptom of fluctuating blood sugar levels when you have diabetes. Both high and low blood sugar can cause cognitive issues.](https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/brain-fog-diabetes?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/brain-fog-diabetes?utm_source=ReadNext) - [13 Things That Happen When You Have Brain Fog](https://www.healthline.com/health/13-things-only-someone-with-brain-fog-would-understand?utm_source=ReadNext) [Dealing with brain fog is no easy feat. If you or a loved one lives with fibromyalgia, here are 13 things you'll be able to relate to.](https://www.healthline.com/health/13-things-only-someone-with-brain-fog-would-understand?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/13-things-only-someone-with-brain-fog-would-understand?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Can a Loss of Taste and Smell Be a Symptom of COVID-19?](https://www.healthline.com/health/coronavirus-loss-of-taste-loss-of-smell?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Cameron White, M.D., MPH](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [A loss of smell and taste can occur suddenly in some people with COVID-19 and is often a symptom that develops early, sometimes before other…](https://www.healthline.com/health/coronavirus-loss-of-taste-loss-of-smell?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/coronavirus-loss-of-taste-loss-of-smell?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Loss of Smell Associated with Milder COVID-19 Cases](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/loss-of-smell-associated-with-milder-covid-19-cases?utm_source=ReadNext) [A new study finds that roughly 86 percent of people with COVID-19 lose their sense of smell. However, this happened much more frequently in patients…](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/loss-of-smell-associated-with-milder-covid-19-cases?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/loss-of-smell-associated-with-milder-covid-19-cases?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What to Know About Nipah Virus Infection](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-nipah-virus?utm_source=ReadNext) [Nipah virus is a serious zoonotic virus that causes flu-like symptoms, as well as complicatins such as encephalitis. Learn more here.](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-nipah-virus?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-nipah-virus?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Blood Types do Mosquitos Prefer?](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-blood-types-do-mosquitos-like-best?utm_source=ReadNext) [Mosquitoes are mostly attracted to type O blood type. Read more.](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-blood-types-do-mosquitos-like-best?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/what-blood-types-do-mosquitos-like-best?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What Are the Symptoms of Zika Virus, and When to See a Doctor](https://www.healthline.com/health/zika-virus-symptoms?utm_source=ReadNext) [Symptoms of Zika virus are typically mild and may include fever, rash, and joint pain. For most people, symptoms are not harmful, but the virus can…](https://www.healthline.com/health/zika-virus-symptoms?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/zika-virus-symptoms?utm_source=ReadNext) - [How Does Mpox Spread?](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-is-mpox-spread?utm_source=ReadNext) [Mpox spreads through close contact, such as skin-to-skin or mouth-to-mouth contact. Learn more here.](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-is-mpox-spread?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/how-is-mpox-spread?utm_source=ReadNext) - [Why Rheumatic Fever Causes Heart Inflammation (Carditis)](https://www.healthline.com/health/carditis-in-rheumatic-fever?utm_source=ReadNext) [Rheumatic fever (RF) can lead to inflammation in various parts of the body, such as the joints, skin, brain, and heart. Heart inflammation is called…](https://www.healthline.com/health/carditis-in-rheumatic-fever?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/carditis-in-rheumatic-fever?utm_source=ReadNext) - [What’s the Difference Between Rheumatic Fever and Scarlet Fever?](https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatic-fever-vs-scarlet-fever?utm_source=ReadNext) Medically reviewed by [Meredith Goodwin, MD, FAAFP](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team) [Rheumatic fever and scarlet fever are caused by the same bacteria, but they present with different symptoms and complications.](https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatic-fever-vs-scarlet-fever?utm_source=ReadNext) [READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatic-fever-vs-scarlet-fever?utm_source=ReadNext) © 2026 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. 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Readable Markdown	The most common symptoms of [COVID-19](https://www.healthline.com/coronavirus) include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. However, [neurological symptoms](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/the-covid-19-symptoms-most-people-could-miss#Delirium,-dizziness,-or-muscle-weakness) — those that affect your brain and nervous system — are reported in up to [25 percent](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7798003/) of people who develop COVID-19. Lingering “brain fog” is one neurological symptom that people with COVID-19 commonly report. In some cases, brain fog, or cognitive impairment, can last many months after the disease has passed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why COVID-19 causes brain fog in some people, how common it is, and when to get help for these neurological issues. [Brain fog](https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-fog) isn’t a medical diagnosis. Instead, it’s a general term used to describe the feeling of being mentally slow, fuzzy, or spaced out. Symptoms of brain fog can include: - [memory problems](https://www.healthline.com/health/short-term-memory-loss) - lack of mental clarity - [poor concentration](https://www.healthline.com/health/unable-to-concentrate) - feeling “out of it” - headaches - [confusion](https://www.healthline.com/health/confusion) Most people experience periods of brain fog occasionally. You’ve likely felt mentally sluggish after a night of poor sleep or when you’ve been under a lot of stress. But some people who’ve had COVID-19 report brain fog that [lasts weeks](https://www.mskcc.org/news/msk-researchers-learn-what-s-driving-brain-fog-people-covid-19) or even months after their other symptoms — like cough, fatigue, or fever —have gone away. Researchers are still investigating the potential cause of brain fog in people who’ve had COVID-19. It’s thought that both physiological and psychological factors may play a role. The new coronavirus that causes COVID-19, known as SARS-CoV-2, is thought to typically spread through close contact with someone who has the infection. Respiratory droplets from that person can enter your body through your nose, mouth, or eyes. Once in your system, the coronavirus enters cells through an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The virus is neuro-invasive, meaning that it can enter your brain tissue. Numerous [case studies](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7273036/) have found that some people who’ve had COVID-19 develop complications such as altered consciousness or encephalopathy. [Encephalopathy](https://www.healthline.com/health/hepatic-encephalopathy) is a general term that refers to damage or disease of your brain. A [study](https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108\(21\)00051-9) from January 2021 found increased levels of inflammatory cytokines in the fluid surrounding the brains of people weeks after their COVID-19 infection. Cytokines are molecules produced by your immune system that encourage inflammation. Inflammation in your brain hinders the ability of your neurons to communicate with each other. This may be one of the factors that contributes to brain fog. Researchers have also [identified](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7533666/) microstructural changes in the hippocampus and other areas of the brain after COVID-19. They believe that these changes may also contribute to cognitive impairments. Other factors that may contribute to brain fog As mentioned above, inflammation in and around your brain may contribute to brain fog. However, there are other ways that COVID-19 may indirectly lead to brain fog as well. Some possible contributing factors include: - [poor sleep quality](https://www.healthline.com/health/sleep-deprivation/effects-on-body) - feelings of [loneliness](https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/chronic-loneliness) - [depression](https://www.healthline.com/health/depression) - [increased stress or anxiety](https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-fog-anxiety) - dietary changes - decreased physical activity - side effects of certain medications Researchers are still working to understand how common brain fog is in people who’ve had COVID-19. One recent [analysis](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7889402/) showed that between 7.5 to 31 percent of people experience an altered mental state as a symptom of COVID-19. However, this estimation was based on small studies and may not be applicable to a larger population. Another recent [study](https://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/fulltext/S1535-6108\(21\)00051-9) reports that neurological symptoms could be more widespread than originally thought and may occur in up to 69 percent of people who’ve had severe illness with COVID-19. At this time, it’s not clear why some people develop brain fog and others don’t. People with severe cases of COVID-19 seem to be at a [higher risk](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/fullarticle/2764549) for developing neurological symptoms than people with mild disease. It’s still not clear how long brain fog typically lasts after COVID-19. Some people report brain fog that lingers for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms have gone away. A [study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7445491/) published in December 2020 found that about 28 percent of people had lingering concentration problems more than 100 days after hospital admission for COVID-19. In another [study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7527190/), researchers found that out of a group of 60 patients who’d recovered from COVID-19, 55 percent still had neurological symptoms 3 months after their illness. These symptoms included: - mood changes - fatigue - headaches - visual disturbances As of now, the best treatment for brain fog caused by COVID-19 is to adopt healthy habits. The following tips may help boost your mental function if you’re dealing with ongoing brain fog. Researchers are continuing to look at the potential benefit of steroids for reducing inflammation of the brain that may contribute to cognitive changes. It’s a good idea to see your doctor if your mental symptoms are severe enough that they interfere with your daily life or if they don’t improve after a couple of weeks. If you have COVID-19, it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms: - [difficulty breathing](https://www.healthline.com/health/breathing-difficulties) - ongoing pain or pressure in your chest - rapid heart rate - new mental confusion - trouble staying awake or difficulty waking - bluish [fingernails](https://www.healthline.com/health/blue-fingernails) or [lips](https://www.healthline.com/health/blue-lips) Some people with COVID-19 report having brain fog for weeks or months after their respiratory symptoms pass. It’s thought that a combination of physiological changes in the brain and psychological factors may contribute to this condition. Researchers are still trying to understand why some people develop neurological symptoms of COVID-19 and others don’t. If you’ve had COVID-19 and have lingering cognitive issues that affect your ability to think clearly, be sure to follow up with your doctor.
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