It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed by two major fears these days: COVID-19 and Alzheimer’s Disease. The first is a threat to public health, while the latter hits home personally, as my father has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. New research suggests a worrying intersection between these two concerns, making it difficult to stay calm.
Alzheimer’s is a cruel disease that affects not only the individual but also their entire family network. Approximately 6 million Americans are grappling with dementia linked to Alzheimer’s, and this toll reverberates through countless families.
Adding to my anxiety is the emerging possibility that COVID-19 could trigger Alzheimer’s. This concerns me deeply for myself and everyone I care about who has experienced COVID-19.
Recent findings presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference by researchers at UT Health San Antonio indicate that brain scans taken before and after COVID-19 show changes similar to those observed in Alzheimer’s patients. Genetic studies reveal that certain genes associated with severe COVID-19 might also elevate the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
Interestingly, loss of smell has emerged as a potential indicator of this overlap. Many COVID-19 survivors report enduring cognitive issues, including forgetfulness that resembles early Alzheimer’s symptoms, prompting doctors to describe these cases as Alzheimer’s-like syndromes.
This impact isn’t limited to older adults. Take, for example, 39-year-old Emily Thompson, who experienced significant neurological setbacks after contracting COVID-19. “I was at dinner and forgot how to use a fork,” she shared. “Before COVID, I was pursuing a master’s degree. Now, I struggle with basic math and reading at a much lower level.”
Dr. Lisa Chang, an authority at the Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative Diseases, noted that it may take years to determine if individuals like Emily have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those who haven’t had COVID-19. Experts suspect a progressive effect of COVID-19 on the brain, akin to Alzheimer’s, but the long-term implications remain uncertain.
Adding to the concern, a study from the Cleveland Clinic found a relationship between COVID-19 infections and brain changes typically associated with Alzheimer’s. The research highlighted significant links between COVID-19 and neuroinflammation, processes that are also implicated in Alzheimer’s.
Other viruses have been linked to Alzheimer’s as well. Previous studies indicate that infections, such as those from the herpes virus, can provoke immune responses in the brain that may set the stage for Alzheimer’s.
Let’s take a moment to breathe and consider this information carefully. While the findings are troubling, they are still in the early stages. Not everyone who contracts COVID-19 will experience neurological issues. However, these developments underscore the importance of vaccination and precautions, especially with the Delta variant spreading.
It’s crucial not to downplay the risks of COVID-19. Having witnessed the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s firsthand, the potential link between COVID-19 and neurological problems is enough to motivate anyone to take protective measures.
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In summary, the potential relationship between COVID-19 and Alzheimer’s Disease is alarming and warrants ongoing research. While not everyone will face these challenges, awareness and precaution remain essential for our health and the well-being of our loved ones.
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