🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 170 (from laksa076)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa170.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.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection","crawl_time":1776439480,"first_indexed_time":1772218730,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,uclahealth!www,\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection s443","src_root_hash":"15898094397791395770","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"For Many, Brain Fog Lingers Post-COVID-19 Infection | UCLA Health","meta_descriptions":["Ask the Doctors monthly letters column answers questions regarding COVID-19, cardiovascular disease, and side effects from medications."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Hello again, dear readers, and welcome to a bonus letters column. We’ve had a deluge of mail, so we’ll jump right in.\nWe continue to get questions about COVID-19, which is clearly with us for the long haul. A reader in Long Beach, California, echoed several readers in wondering about the aftereffects of the illness. “Can having COVID-19 cause cognitive changes?” they asked. The answer is yes. People who have recovered from COVID-19, including those with mild illness, report ongoing changes to memory, attention, alertness and the ability to process new information. This is collectively referred to as “brain fog.” Some people also find they have an increase in anxiety and depression, as well as changes to sleep. In some cases, these resolve in the weeks after physical symptoms have ended. For some people who develop what is known as long COVID, the cognitive effects continue. The reasons for this are not clear, but both brain fog and long COVID are subjects of intensive research.\nIn writing about cardiovascular disease, we have mentioned statin drugs. These medications, which improve unhealthy blood lipid levels, reduce the risk of illness and death. This prompted a question from a reader in California: “Do statin drug have side effects?” they asked. “If so, what are they?” Yes, like many medications, statin drugs can have side effects. The most common is muscle discomfort or pain. It can range from mild to severe. In some people, liver inflammation can occur. That’s why doctors often order a liver enzyme test to act as a baseline when starting a patient on statins. It’s possible, but not common, for changes in blood sugar metabolism to occur. Some people report experiencing memory problems or confusion, which are reversed when the drugs are discontinued. Not everyone develops side effects, but certain conditions -- such as alcohol use, being older and taking multiple medications -- can increase risk. Be sure to ask your doctor to explain possible side effects when being prescribed a new drug.\nA reader who often experiences side effects from medications asks if they can be predicted. “I was wondering if there is some blood test that can determine if a certain medication would be OK for me to take?” they wrote. Your question brings us into the expanding field of (deep breath) pharmacogenetics. It’s the study of how each person’s specific genes affect the way they respond to medications. This includes how effective the drug may be, and whether or not side effects are likely to occur. Tests are done with a cheek swab, a saliva sample or a blood draw. At this time, however, pharmacogenetic testing isn’t available for all medications. Eligible medications include a breast cancer drug known as Tamoxifen, an HIV drug, an epilepsy treatment and certain blood thinners.\nAs always, we appreciate your taking the time to write to us. And thank you, as well, for the very kind notes some of you have sent. We’re happy to know the column is both helpful and enjoyable.\n(Send your questions to\n[email protected]\n, or write: Ask the Doctors, c\/o UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.)","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#main-content)\n\nExplore links (header)\n\n{ leftIsLimited = (\\$el.getBoundingClientRect().left)\n\nExplore UCLA Health\n\n- [UCLA Health Home](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/about)\n- [Cancer Center](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/cancer)\n- [Hospitals & Clinics](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations)\n- [School of Medicine](https:\/\/medschool.ucla.edu\/)\n- [Academic Departments](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/departments)\n- [News & Insights](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news)\n- [Community & Equity](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/community-equity)\n\n[Refer a Patient](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/healthcare-professionals)\n\nUniversal links (header)\n\n[myUCLAhealth](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/myuclahealth\/nojs \"myUCLAhealth Login.\")\n\n[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/contact-us)\n\nTranslate\n\n- [English](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [العربية](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [中文](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [Italiano](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [日本語](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [한국어](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [فارسی](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [Русский](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [Español](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [Tiếng Việt](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n\nTranslate\n\n- [English](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [العربية](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [中文](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [Italiano](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [日本語](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [한국어](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [فارسی](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [Русский](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [Español](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n- [Tiếng Việt](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink)\n\n[![UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/themes\/custom\/uclahealth\/dist\/images\/ucla-health-logo.svg)](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/)\n\nPrimary navigation\n\n[Find Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/find-care\/appointments)\n\n\\>\n\n- [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/providers)\n- [Find a Location](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations)\n- [Virtual Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/find-care\/appointments\/virtual-care)\n- [Make an Appointment](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/find-care\/appointments)\n- [Second Opinion Consults](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/find-care\/appointments\/second-opinion-consults)\n- [Medical Services](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/medical-services)\n- [Cancer Medical Services](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/cancer\/cancer-services)\n- [Clinical Trials](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/clinical-trials)\n- [Wellness & Routine Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/support-information\/patient-education\/annual-health-wellness-screenings)\n\n[Patient Resources](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources)\n\n\\>\n\n- [Prepare for Your Visit](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/prepare-your-visit)\n- [Billing & Insurance](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/billing-insurance)\n- [Support & Information](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/support-information)\n- [Patient Portal (myUCLAhealth) & Medical Records](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/medical-records)\n- [Help Paying Your Bill](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/billing-insurance\/financial-assistance-program\/hospital-services-help-paying-your-bill)\n- [International Services](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/international-services)\n- [Patient Scam Alert](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/patient-scam-alert)\n\n[Locations](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search)\n\n\\>\n\n- [Immediate Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/immediate-care)\n- [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A741)\n- [Pediatric Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A781)\n- [Cancer Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/cancer\/locations)\n- [Surgical Centers](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A761 \"See a list of outpatient surgical centers at UCLA Health\")\n- [Imaging\/Radiology](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A786)\n- [Hospitals](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?f%5B0%5D=type%3A751)\n- [All Locations](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations)\n\n[Discover](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/about)\n\n\\>\n\n- [About UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/about)\n- [News & Insights](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news)\n- [Patient Stories](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/search?f%5B0%5D=type%3A80636)\n- [Events Calendar](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/events)\n- [Donate to UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/giving)\n- [Work at UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/human-resources)\n- [For Health Care Professionals](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/healthcare-professionals)\n- [Connect with UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover-ucla-health\/connect)\n\n[Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/providers)\n\nPrimary navigation (mobile)\n\n[Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/providers)\n\n[Find Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/find-care\/appointments)\n\n- [Find a Doctor](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/providers)\n- [Find a Location](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations)\n- [Virtual Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/find-care\/appointments\/virtual-care)\n- [Make an Appointment](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/find-care\/appointments)\n- [Second Opinion Consults](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/find-care\/appointments\/second-opinion-consults)\n- [Medical Services](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/medical-services)\n- [Cancer Medical Services](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/cancer\/cancer-services)\n- [Clinical Trials](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/clinical-trials)\n- [Wellness & Routine Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/support-information\/patient-education\/annual-health-wellness-screenings)\n\n[Patient Resources](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources)\n\n- [Prepare for Your Visit](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/prepare-your-visit)\n- [Billing & Insurance](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/billing-insurance)\n- [Support & Information](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/support-information)\n- [Patient Portal (myUCLAhealth) & Medical Records](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/medical-records)\n- [Help Paying Your Bill](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/billing-insurance\/financial-assistance-program\/hospital-services-help-paying-your-bill)\n- [International Services](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/international-services)\n- [Patient Scam Alert](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/patient-scam-alert)\n\n[Locations](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search)\n\n- [Immediate Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/immediate-care)\n- [Primary Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A741)\n- [Pediatric Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A781)\n- [Cancer Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/cancer\/locations)\n- [Surgical Centers](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A761 \"See a list of outpatient surgical centers at UCLA Health\")\n- [Imaging\/Radiology](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A786)\n- [Hospitals](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations\/search?f%5B0%5D=type%3A751)\n- [All Locations](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations)\n\n[Discover](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/about)\n\n- [About UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/about)\n- [News & Insights](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news)\n- [Patient Stories](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/search?f%5B0%5D=type%3A80636)\n- [Events Calendar](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/events)\n- [Donate to UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/giving)\n- [Work at UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/human-resources)\n- [For Health Care Professionals](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/healthcare-professionals)\n- [Connect with UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover-ucla-health\/connect)\n\nExplore links (mobile)\n\nExplore UCLA Health\n\n- [UCLA Health Home](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/about)\n- [Cancer Center](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/cancer)\n- [Hospitals & Clinics](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/locations)\n- [School of Medicine](https:\/\/medschool.ucla.edu\/)\n- [Academic Departments](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/departments)\n- [News & Insights](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news)\n- [Community & Equity](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/community-equity)\n\n[Refer a Patient](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/discover\/healthcare-professionals)\n\nUniversal links (mobile)\n\n[myUCLAhealth](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/myuclahealth\/nojs \"myUCLAhealth Login.\")\n\n[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/contact-us)\n\nBreadcrumb\n\n1. [Home](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/)\n2. [News & Insights](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news)\n# For Many, Brain Fog Lingers Post-COVID-19 Infection\n\n![Doctor typing on computer](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/landscape_3x2_016000_640x427\/public\/images\/31\/adobestock-194921316.jpeg?f=5f71a0df&itok=HN06fEK8)\n\nApril 5, 2023\n\nBy Ask the Doctors\n\n3 min read\n\n**Hello again, dear readers, and welcome to a bonus letters column. We’ve had a deluge of mail, so we’ll jump right in.**\n\n- We continue to get questions about COVID-19, which is clearly with us for the long haul. A reader in Long Beach, California, echoed several readers in wondering about the aftereffects of the illness. “Can having COVID-19 cause cognitive changes?” they asked. The answer is yes. People who have recovered from COVID-19, including those with mild illness, report ongoing changes to memory, attention, alertness and the ability to process new information. This is collectively referred to as “brain fog.” Some people also find they have an increase in anxiety and depression, as well as changes to sleep. In some cases, these resolve in the weeks after physical symptoms have ended. For some people who develop what is known as long COVID, the cognitive effects continue. The reasons for this are not clear, but both brain fog and long COVID are subjects of intensive research.\n- In writing about cardiovascular disease, we have mentioned statin drugs. These medications, which improve unhealthy blood lipid levels, reduce the risk of illness and death. This prompted a question from a reader in California: “Do statin drug have side effects?” they asked. “If so, what are they?” Yes, like many medications, statin drugs can have side effects. The most common is muscle discomfort or pain. It can range from mild to severe. In some people, liver inflammation can occur. That’s why doctors often order a liver enzyme test to act as a baseline when starting a patient on statins. It’s possible, but not common, for changes in blood sugar metabolism to occur. Some people report experiencing memory problems or confusion, which are reversed when the drugs are discontinued. Not everyone develops side effects, but certain conditions -- such as alcohol use, being older and taking multiple medications -- can increase risk. Be sure to ask your doctor to explain possible side effects when being prescribed a new drug.\n- A reader who often experiences side effects from medications asks if they can be predicted. “I was wondering if there is some blood test that can determine if a certain medication would be OK for me to take?” they wrote. Your question brings us into the expanding field of (deep breath) pharmacogenetics. It’s the study of how each person’s specific genes affect the way they respond to medications. This includes how effective the drug may be, and whether or not side effects are likely to occur. Tests are done with a cheek swab, a saliva sample or a blood draw. At this time, however, pharmacogenetic testing isn’t available for all medications. Eligible medications include a breast cancer drug known as Tamoxifen, an HIV drug, an epilepsy treatment and certain blood thinners.\n\nAs always, we appreciate your taking the time to write to us. And thank you, as well, for the very kind notes some of you have sent. We’re happy to know the column is both helpful and enjoyable.\n\n*(Send your questions to [\\[email protected\\]](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/cdn-cgi\/l\/email-protection), or write: Ask the Doctors, c\/o UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.)*\n\n[View All News & Insights](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news)\n\n## Related Content\n### Articles:\n- [Ask the Doctors](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/search?f%5B0%5D=topic%3A80081)\n- [Covid-19](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/search?f%5B0%5D=tag%3A78736)\n- [Heart](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/search?f%5B0%5D=tag%3A81031)\n- [Medication](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/search?f%5B0%5D=tag%3A81121)\n\n### Services:\n- [Heart & Vascular Care](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/medical-services\/heart)\n- [Long COVID Treatment](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/medical-services\/long-covid)\n## Physicians\n![Eve M. Glazier, MD](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/square_006000_240x240\/public\/images\/glazier-eve-1285839852.jpg?h=6303ee9e&f=e6108873&itok=pHzdPEL8)\n\nEve M. Glazier, MD\n\nInternal Medicine\n\n[Eve M. Glazier, MD](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/providers\/eve-glazier)\n\n![Elizabeth Ko, MD](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/square_006000_240x240\/public\/images\/ko-elizabeth-1801189048.jpg?h=1d36513c&f=912d216b&itok=qCEsyLhv)\n\nElizabeth Ko, MD\n\nInternal Medicine\n\n[Elizabeth Ko, MD](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/providers\/elizabeth-ko)\n\nShare:\n\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.uclahealth.org%2Fnews%2Farticle%2Fmany-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection)\n- [X-Twitter](https:\/\/x.com\/intent\/tweet?text=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.uclahealth.org%2Fnews%2Farticle%2Fmany-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.uclahealth.org%2Fnews%2Farticle%2Fmany-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection)\n\n## Related Articles\n![Doctor on a computer](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/landscape_3x2_012000_480x320\/public\/images\/b5\/adobestock-296343458.jpeg?h=53bd24ab&f=cbdcebb5&itok=CL_f7jzK)\n\n### [Tonsil stones may be cause of bad breath](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/tonsil-stones-may-be-cause-bad-breath)\nApril 15, 2026\n\n3 min read\n\n![hemosiderin staining](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/landscape_3x2_012000_480x320\/public\/images\/85\/hemosiderin-staining.jpg?f=7e7a5fbf&itok=Z9Y9lQ0y)\n\n### [Hemosiderin staining known side effect of iron infusions](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/hemosiderin-staining-known-side-effect-iron-infusions)\nApril 13, 2026\n\n3 min read\n\n![Image](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/sites\/default\/files\/styles\/landscape_3x2_012000_480x320\/public\/images\/c0\/first-aid.jpg?f=3a17c3a6&itok=JXKhulb4)\n\n### [Carry the essentials in a vacation first aid kit](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/article\/carry-essentials-vacation-first-aid-kit)\nApril 10, 2026\n\n3 min read\n\n[View all Ask the Doctors articles](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/news\/search\/?f%5B0%5D=topic%3A80081)\n\n[![UCLA Health](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/themes\/custom\/uclahealth\/dist\/images\/ucla-health-logo-footer.svg)](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/)\n\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/uclahealth)\n- [X-Twitter](https:\/\/x.com\/uclahealth)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/instagram.com\/uclahealth)\n- [YouTube](https:\/\/youtube.com\/ucla-health)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/linkedin.com\/company\/ucla-health)\n- [Weibo](https:\/\/weibo.com\/UCLAHealth)\n\n## Policy links (footer)\n- [HIPAA Notice](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/privacy-practices)\n- [Privacy Notice](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/privacy-notice)\n- [Nondiscrimination](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/nondiscrimination)\n- [Report Misconduct](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/reporting-misconduct)\n- [We listen. We care.](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/patient-resources\/support-information\/patient-experience\/we-listen-we-care)\n\n© 2026 UCLA Health","attrs_readable_markdown":"**Hello again, dear readers, and welcome to a bonus letters column. We’ve had a deluge of mail, so we’ll jump right in.**\n\n- We continue to get questions about COVID-19, which is clearly with us for the long haul. A reader in Long Beach, California, echoed several readers in wondering about the aftereffects of the illness. “Can having COVID-19 cause cognitive changes?” they asked. The answer is yes. People who have recovered from COVID-19, including those with mild illness, report ongoing changes to memory, attention, alertness and the ability to process new information. This is collectively referred to as “brain fog.” Some people also find they have an increase in anxiety and depression, as well as changes to sleep. In some cases, these resolve in the weeks after physical symptoms have ended. For some people who develop what is known as long COVID, the cognitive effects continue. The reasons for this are not clear, but both brain fog and long COVID are subjects of intensive research.\n- In writing about cardiovascular disease, we have mentioned statin drugs. These medications, which improve unhealthy blood lipid levels, reduce the risk of illness and death. This prompted a question from a reader in California: “Do statin drug have side effects?” they asked. “If so, what are they?” Yes, like many medications, statin drugs can have side effects. The most common is muscle discomfort or pain. It can range from mild to severe. In some people, liver inflammation can occur. That’s why doctors often order a liver enzyme test to act as a baseline when starting a patient on statins. It’s possible, but not common, for changes in blood sugar metabolism to occur. Some people report experiencing memory problems or confusion, which are reversed when the drugs are discontinued. Not everyone develops side effects, but certain conditions -- such as alcohol use, being older and taking multiple medications -- can increase risk. Be sure to ask your doctor to explain possible side effects when being prescribed a new drug.\n- A reader who often experiences side effects from medications asks if they can be predicted. “I was wondering if there is some blood test that can determine if a certain medication would be OK for me to take?” they wrote. Your question brings us into the expanding field of (deep breath) pharmacogenetics. It’s the study of how each person’s specific genes affect the way they respond to medications. This includes how effective the drug may be, and whether or not side effects are likely to occur. Tests are done with a cheek swab, a saliva sample or a blood draw. At this time, however, pharmacogenetic testing isn’t available for all medications. Eligible medications include a breast cancer drug known as Tamoxifen, an HIV drug, an epilepsy treatment and certain blood thinners.\n\nAs always, we appreciate your taking the time to write to us. And thank you, as well, for the very kind notes some of you have sent. We’re happy to know the column is both helpful and enjoyable.\n\n*(Send your questions to [\\[email protected\\]](https:\/\/www.uclahealth.org\/cdn-cgi\/l\/email-protection), or write: Ask the Doctors, c\/o UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.)*","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

2 days ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0.1 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection
Last Crawled	2026-04-17 15:24:40 (2 days ago)
First Indexed	2026-02-27 18:58:50 (1 month ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	For Many, Brain Fog Lingers Post-COVID-19 Infection \| UCLA Health
Meta Description	Ask the Doctors monthly letters column answers questions regarding COVID-19, cardiovascular disease, and side effects from medications.
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Hello again, dear readers, and welcome to a bonus letters column. We’ve had a deluge of mail, so we’ll jump right in. We continue to get questions about COVID-19, which is clearly with us for the long haul. A reader in Long Beach, California, echoed several readers in wondering about the aftereffects of the illness. “Can having COVID-19 cause cognitive changes?” they asked. The answer is yes. People who have recovered from COVID-19, including those with mild illness, report ongoing changes to memory, attention, alertness and the ability to process new information. This is collectively referred to as “brain fog.” Some people also find they have an increase in anxiety and depression, as well as changes to sleep. In some cases, these resolve in the weeks after physical symptoms have ended. For some people who develop what is known as long COVID, the cognitive effects continue. The reasons for this are not clear, but both brain fog and long COVID are subjects of intensive research. In writing about cardiovascular disease, we have mentioned statin drugs. These medications, which improve unhealthy blood lipid levels, reduce the risk of illness and death. This prompted a question from a reader in California: “Do statin drug have side effects?” they asked. “If so, what are they?” Yes, like many medications, statin drugs can have side effects. The most common is muscle discomfort or pain. It can range from mild to severe. In some people, liver inflammation can occur. That’s why doctors often order a liver enzyme test to act as a baseline when starting a patient on statins. It’s possible, but not common, for changes in blood sugar metabolism to occur. Some people report experiencing memory problems or confusion, which are reversed when the drugs are discontinued. Not everyone develops side effects, but certain conditions -- such as alcohol use, being older and taking multiple medications -- can increase risk. Be sure to ask your doctor to explain possible side effects when being prescribed a new drug. A reader who often experiences side effects from medications asks if they can be predicted. “I was wondering if there is some blood test that can determine if a certain medication would be OK for me to take?” they wrote. Your question brings us into the expanding field of (deep breath) pharmacogenetics. It’s the study of how each person’s specific genes affect the way they respond to medications. This includes how effective the drug may be, and whether or not side effects are likely to occur. Tests are done with a cheek swab, a saliva sample or a blood draw. At this time, however, pharmacogenetic testing isn’t available for all medications. Eligible medications include a breast cancer drug known as Tamoxifen, an HIV drug, an epilepsy treatment and certain blood thinners. As always, we appreciate your taking the time to write to us. And thank you, as well, for the very kind notes some of you have sent. We’re happy to know the column is both helpful and enjoyable. (Send your questions to [email protected] , or write: Ask the Doctors, c/o UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.)
Markdown	[Skip to main content](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#main-content) Explore links (header) { leftIsLimited = (\$el.getBoundingClientRect().left) Explore UCLA Health - [UCLA Health Home](https://www.uclahealth.org/) - [About Us](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/about) - [Cancer Center](https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer) - [Hospitals & Clinics](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations) - [School of Medicine](https://medschool.ucla.edu/) - [Academic Departments](https://www.uclahealth.org/departments) - [News & Insights](https://www.uclahealth.org/news) - [Community & Equity](https://www.uclahealth.org/community-equity) [Refer a Patient](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/healthcare-professionals) Universal links (header) [myUCLAhealth](https://www.uclahealth.org/myuclahealth/nojs "myUCLAhealth Login.") [Contact Us](https://www.uclahealth.org/contact-us) Translate - [English](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [العربية](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [中文](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [Italiano](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [日本語](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [한국어](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [فارسی](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [Русский](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [Español](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [Tiếng Việt](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) Translate - [English](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [العربية](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [中文](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [Italiano](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [日本語](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [한국어](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [فارسی](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [Русский](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [Español](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) - [Tiếng Việt](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection#nolink) [![UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/themes/custom/uclahealth/dist/images/ucla-health-logo.svg)](https://www.uclahealth.org/) Primary navigation [Find Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/find-care/appointments) \> - [Find a Doctor](https://www.uclahealth.org/providers) - [Find a Location](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations) - [Virtual Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/find-care/appointments/virtual-care) - [Make an Appointment](https://www.uclahealth.org/find-care/appointments) - [Second Opinion Consults](https://www.uclahealth.org/find-care/appointments/second-opinion-consults) - [Medical Services](https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services) - [Cancer Medical Services](https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer/cancer-services) - [Clinical Trials](https://www.uclahealth.org/clinical-trials) - [Wellness & Routine Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/support-information/patient-education/annual-health-wellness-screenings) [Patient Resources](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources) \> - [Prepare for Your Visit](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/prepare-your-visit) - [Billing & Insurance](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/billing-insurance) - [Support & Information](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/support-information) - [Patient Portal (myUCLAhealth) & Medical Records](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/medical-records) - [Help Paying Your Bill](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/billing-insurance/financial-assistance-program/hospital-services-help-paying-your-bill) - [International Services](https://www.uclahealth.org/international-services) - [Patient Scam Alert](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/patient-scam-alert) [Locations](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search) \> - [Immediate Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/immediate-care) - [Primary Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A741) - [Pediatric Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A781) - [Cancer Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer/locations) - [Surgical Centers](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A761 "See a list of outpatient surgical centers at UCLA Health") - [Imaging/Radiology](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A786) - [Hospitals](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?f%5B0%5D=type%3A751) - [All Locations](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations) [Discover](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/about) \> - [About UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/about) - [News & Insights](https://www.uclahealth.org/news) - [Patient Stories](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/search?f%5B0%5D=type%3A80636) - [Events Calendar](https://www.uclahealth.org/events) - [Donate to UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/giving) - [Work at UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/human-resources) - [For Health Care Professionals](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/healthcare-professionals) - [Connect with UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover-ucla-health/connect) [Find a Doctor](https://www.uclahealth.org/providers) Primary navigation (mobile) [Find a Doctor](https://www.uclahealth.org/providers) [Find Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/find-care/appointments) - [Find a Doctor](https://www.uclahealth.org/providers) - [Find a Location](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations) - [Virtual Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/find-care/appointments/virtual-care) - [Make an Appointment](https://www.uclahealth.org/find-care/appointments) - [Second Opinion Consults](https://www.uclahealth.org/find-care/appointments/second-opinion-consults) - [Medical Services](https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services) - [Cancer Medical Services](https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer/cancer-services) - [Clinical Trials](https://www.uclahealth.org/clinical-trials) - [Wellness & Routine Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/support-information/patient-education/annual-health-wellness-screenings) [Patient Resources](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources) - [Prepare for Your Visit](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/prepare-your-visit) - [Billing & Insurance](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/billing-insurance) - [Support & Information](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/support-information) - [Patient Portal (myUCLAhealth) & Medical Records](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/medical-records) - [Help Paying Your Bill](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/billing-insurance/financial-assistance-program/hospital-services-help-paying-your-bill) - [International Services](https://www.uclahealth.org/international-services) - [Patient Scam Alert](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/patient-scam-alert) [Locations](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search) - [Immediate Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/immediate-care) - [Primary Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A741) - [Pediatric Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A781) - [Cancer Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer/locations) - [Surgical Centers](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A761 "See a list of outpatient surgical centers at UCLA Health") - [Imaging/Radiology](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?s=&f%5B0%5D=type%3A786) - [Hospitals](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations/search?f%5B0%5D=type%3A751) - [All Locations](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations) [Discover](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/about) - [About UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/about) - [News & Insights](https://www.uclahealth.org/news) - [Patient Stories](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/search?f%5B0%5D=type%3A80636) - [Events Calendar](https://www.uclahealth.org/events) - [Donate to UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/giving) - [Work at UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/human-resources) - [For Health Care Professionals](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/healthcare-professionals) - [Connect with UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover-ucla-health/connect) Explore links (mobile) Explore UCLA Health - [UCLA Health Home](https://www.uclahealth.org/) - [About Us](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/about) - [Cancer Center](https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer) - [Hospitals & Clinics](https://www.uclahealth.org/locations) - [School of Medicine](https://medschool.ucla.edu/) - [Academic Departments](https://www.uclahealth.org/departments) - [News & Insights](https://www.uclahealth.org/news) - [Community & Equity](https://www.uclahealth.org/community-equity) [Refer a Patient](https://www.uclahealth.org/discover/healthcare-professionals) Universal links (mobile) [myUCLAhealth](https://www.uclahealth.org/myuclahealth/nojs "myUCLAhealth Login.") [Contact Us](https://www.uclahealth.org/contact-us) Breadcrumb 1. [Home](https://www.uclahealth.org/) 2. [News & Insights](https://www.uclahealth.org/news) # For Many, Brain Fog Lingers Post-COVID-19 Infection ![Doctor typing on computer](https://www.uclahealth.org/sites/default/files/styles/landscape_3x2_016000_640x427/public/images/31/adobestock-194921316.jpeg?f=5f71a0df&itok=HN06fEK8) April 5, 2023 By Ask the Doctors 3 min read Hello again, dear readers, and welcome to a bonus letters column. We’ve had a deluge of mail, so we’ll jump right in. - We continue to get questions about COVID-19, which is clearly with us for the long haul. A reader in Long Beach, California, echoed several readers in wondering about the aftereffects of the illness. “Can having COVID-19 cause cognitive changes?” they asked. The answer is yes. People who have recovered from COVID-19, including those with mild illness, report ongoing changes to memory, attention, alertness and the ability to process new information. This is collectively referred to as “brain fog.” Some people also find they have an increase in anxiety and depression, as well as changes to sleep. In some cases, these resolve in the weeks after physical symptoms have ended. For some people who develop what is known as long COVID, the cognitive effects continue. The reasons for this are not clear, but both brain fog and long COVID are subjects of intensive research. - In writing about cardiovascular disease, we have mentioned statin drugs. These medications, which improve unhealthy blood lipid levels, reduce the risk of illness and death. This prompted a question from a reader in California: “Do statin drug have side effects?” they asked. “If so, what are they?” Yes, like many medications, statin drugs can have side effects. The most common is muscle discomfort or pain. It can range from mild to severe. In some people, liver inflammation can occur. That’s why doctors often order a liver enzyme test to act as a baseline when starting a patient on statins. It’s possible, but not common, for changes in blood sugar metabolism to occur. Some people report experiencing memory problems or confusion, which are reversed when the drugs are discontinued. Not everyone develops side effects, but certain conditions -- such as alcohol use, being older and taking multiple medications -- can increase risk. Be sure to ask your doctor to explain possible side effects when being prescribed a new drug. - A reader who often experiences side effects from medications asks if they can be predicted. “I was wondering if there is some blood test that can determine if a certain medication would be OK for me to take?” they wrote. Your question brings us into the expanding field of (deep breath) pharmacogenetics. It’s the study of how each person’s specific genes affect the way they respond to medications. This includes how effective the drug may be, and whether or not side effects are likely to occur. Tests are done with a cheek swab, a saliva sample or a blood draw. At this time, however, pharmacogenetic testing isn’t available for all medications. Eligible medications include a breast cancer drug known as Tamoxifen, an HIV drug, an epilepsy treatment and certain blood thinners. As always, we appreciate your taking the time to write to us. And thank you, as well, for the very kind notes some of you have sent. We’re happy to know the column is both helpful and enjoyable. (Send your questions to [\[email protected\]](https://www.uclahealth.org/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection), or write: Ask the Doctors, c/o UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.) [View All News & Insights](https://www.uclahealth.org/news) ## Related Content ### Articles: - [Ask the Doctors](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/search?f%5B0%5D=topic%3A80081) - [Covid-19](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/search?f%5B0%5D=tag%3A78736) - [Heart](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/search?f%5B0%5D=tag%3A81031) - [Medication](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/search?f%5B0%5D=tag%3A81121) ### Services: - [Heart & Vascular Care](https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/heart) - [Long COVID Treatment](https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/long-covid) ## Physicians ![Eve M. Glazier, MD](https://www.uclahealth.org/sites/default/files/styles/square_006000_240x240/public/images/glazier-eve-1285839852.jpg?h=6303ee9e&f=e6108873&itok=pHzdPEL8) Eve M. Glazier, MD Internal Medicine [Eve M. Glazier, MD](https://www.uclahealth.org/providers/eve-glazier) ![Elizabeth Ko, MD](https://www.uclahealth.org/sites/default/files/styles/square_006000_240x240/public/images/ko-elizabeth-1801189048.jpg?h=1d36513c&f=912d216b&itok=qCEsyLhv) Elizabeth Ko, MD Internal Medicine [Elizabeth Ko, MD](https://www.uclahealth.org/providers/elizabeth-ko) Share: - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.uclahealth.org%2Fnews%2Farticle%2Fmany-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection) - [X-Twitter](https://x.com/intent/tweet?text=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.uclahealth.org%2Fnews%2Farticle%2Fmany-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.uclahealth.org%2Fnews%2Farticle%2Fmany-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection) ## Related Articles ![Doctor on a computer](https://www.uclahealth.org/sites/default/files/styles/landscape_3x2_012000_480x320/public/images/b5/adobestock-296343458.jpeg?h=53bd24ab&f=cbdcebb5&itok=CL_f7jzK) ### [Tonsil stones may be cause of bad breath](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/tonsil-stones-may-be-cause-bad-breath) April 15, 2026 3 min read ![hemosiderin staining](https://www.uclahealth.org/sites/default/files/styles/landscape_3x2_012000_480x320/public/images/85/hemosiderin-staining.jpg?f=7e7a5fbf&itok=Z9Y9lQ0y) ### [Hemosiderin staining known side effect of iron infusions](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/hemosiderin-staining-known-side-effect-iron-infusions) April 13, 2026 3 min read ![Image](https://www.uclahealth.org/sites/default/files/styles/landscape_3x2_012000_480x320/public/images/c0/first-aid.jpg?f=3a17c3a6&itok=JXKhulb4) ### [Carry the essentials in a vacation first aid kit](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/carry-essentials-vacation-first-aid-kit) April 10, 2026 3 min read [View all Ask the Doctors articles](https://www.uclahealth.org/news/search/?f%5B0%5D=topic%3A80081) [![UCLA Health](https://www.uclahealth.org/themes/custom/uclahealth/dist/images/ucla-health-logo-footer.svg)](https://www.uclahealth.org/) - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/uclahealth) - [X-Twitter](https://x.com/uclahealth) - [Instagram](https://instagram.com/uclahealth) - [YouTube](https://youtube.com/ucla-health) - [LinkedIn](https://linkedin.com/company/ucla-health) - [Weibo](https://weibo.com/UCLAHealth) ## Policy links (footer) - [HIPAA Notice](https://www.uclahealth.org/privacy-practices) - [Privacy Notice](https://www.uclahealth.org/privacy-notice) - [Nondiscrimination](https://www.uclahealth.org/nondiscrimination) - [Report Misconduct](https://www.uclahealth.org/reporting-misconduct) - [We listen. We care.](https://www.uclahealth.org/patient-resources/support-information/patient-experience/we-listen-we-care) © 2026 UCLA Health
Readable Markdown	Hello again, dear readers, and welcome to a bonus letters column. We’ve had a deluge of mail, so we’ll jump right in. - We continue to get questions about COVID-19, which is clearly with us for the long haul. A reader in Long Beach, California, echoed several readers in wondering about the aftereffects of the illness. “Can having COVID-19 cause cognitive changes?” they asked. The answer is yes. People who have recovered from COVID-19, including those with mild illness, report ongoing changes to memory, attention, alertness and the ability to process new information. This is collectively referred to as “brain fog.” Some people also find they have an increase in anxiety and depression, as well as changes to sleep. In some cases, these resolve in the weeks after physical symptoms have ended. For some people who develop what is known as long COVID, the cognitive effects continue. The reasons for this are not clear, but both brain fog and long COVID are subjects of intensive research. - In writing about cardiovascular disease, we have mentioned statin drugs. These medications, which improve unhealthy blood lipid levels, reduce the risk of illness and death. This prompted a question from a reader in California: “Do statin drug have side effects?” they asked. “If so, what are they?” Yes, like many medications, statin drugs can have side effects. The most common is muscle discomfort or pain. It can range from mild to severe. In some people, liver inflammation can occur. That’s why doctors often order a liver enzyme test to act as a baseline when starting a patient on statins. It’s possible, but not common, for changes in blood sugar metabolism to occur. Some people report experiencing memory problems or confusion, which are reversed when the drugs are discontinued. Not everyone develops side effects, but certain conditions -- such as alcohol use, being older and taking multiple medications -- can increase risk. Be sure to ask your doctor to explain possible side effects when being prescribed a new drug. - A reader who often experiences side effects from medications asks if they can be predicted. “I was wondering if there is some blood test that can determine if a certain medication would be OK for me to take?” they wrote. Your question brings us into the expanding field of (deep breath) pharmacogenetics. It’s the study of how each person’s specific genes affect the way they respond to medications. This includes how effective the drug may be, and whether or not side effects are likely to occur. Tests are done with a cheek swab, a saliva sample or a blood draw. At this time, however, pharmacogenetic testing isn’t available for all medications. Eligible medications include a breast cancer drug known as Tamoxifen, an HIV drug, an epilepsy treatment and certain blood thinners. As always, we appreciate your taking the time to write to us. And thank you, as well, for the very kind notes some of you have sent. We’re happy to know the column is both helpful and enjoyable. (Send your questions to [\[email protected\]](https://www.uclahealth.org/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection), or write: Ask the Doctors, c/o UCLA Health Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Owing to the volume of mail, personal replies cannot be provided.)
Shard	170 (laksa)
Root Hash	15898094397791395770
Unparsed URL	org,uclahealth!www,/news/article/many-brain-fog-lingers-post-covid-19-infection s443