Neuroscience News New research shows that severe Covid-19 infection can cause inflammation in the brainstem, potentially leading to prolonged symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and anxiety. Using ultra-high-resolution 7-Tesla MRI scanners, scientists observed specific brainstem areas associated with these symptoms, highlighting how immune response post-infection might affect brain health.
This inflammation may impact both physical and mental health, as brainstem abnormalities were linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression in patients. The findings offer valuable insights for understanding long-term Covid effects and could improve treatment approaches for conditions related to brainstem inflammation.