Neurological disease Against the effects of COVID – In the situation of the COVID-19 epidemic Most of the infected patients have respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, shortness of breath, lack of odor, tongue, taste but COVID. In addition to infection in the respiratory system. In some patients it can also affect other body systems, including neurological diseases.
Dr. Chaisak Damrikarnlert, MD. Internal Medicine Neurology and Behavioral Neuroscience and Dementia Physician Bangkok International Hospital said research found that COVID-19 patients Can experience neurological symptoms up to 36%, which can be found in both the central nervous system. And peripheral nervous system It is thought that the symptoms are caused by the virus can directly enter the nervous system and stimulate various immune systems. This causes inflammation and subsequent nerve cell injury.
From the said research, it was found that Neurological symptoms in COVID patients They range from mild symptoms such as lightheadedness, headache, decreased taste or smell. Nerve or muscle pain To severe symptoms such as reduced awareness, seizures, or stroke symptoms
There have been reports of cases of COVID. That causes encephalitis Meningitis Disease in Gillangbar Syndrome And sudden ischemic stroke in young patients from stroke as well.
For people with existing neurological disease, such as epilepsy, stroke. Alzheimer’s dementia Or Parkinson’s disease Research to date has not found that the underlying neurological disease increases the risk of COVID infection.
Dr. Chaisak said that However, some of the patients with this neurological disease are quite old. And are vulnerable to COVID infection easily. Therefore, it is imperative that patients with the aforementioned brain and nervous system diseases should take the drug continuously. Take good care of your health And there is also the correct prevention of infection in some neurological diseases, such as myastenia gravis. Neuropathy of the central system Or chronic nerve inflammation Some people need to take immunosuppressants or modify immunity to control their disease.
From information to date It was found that these drugs did not increase the risk of developing serious symptoms of COVID infection than those who did not take any drugs. Therefore, it is not recommended to stop the drug before consulting the prescribing physician.
In patients with cerebrovascular disease or dementia Caring for the sick is no different to the general public. Only need to keep an eye on the people who care closely This is because most of these two groups of patients have a caregiver to assist them in their daily routine. Or there may be a physical therapist to practice physical therapy for the patient. These individuals may increase the risk of infection to the patient, so it is recommended that if there is a caregiver at home. Must always wear a face mask and wash your hands regularly. In case the patient needs to go out Can be done normally But must have measures Act like a normal person is to wear a mask all the time. Wash your hands when in contact with things Do not rub your eyes with your hands or touch your face. To reduce the risk of exposure to the virus
Dr. Chaisak said that COVID infection In addition to causing respiratory symptoms It can also cause a wide range of neurological symptoms, most of which are not specific to this virus. Sometimes the symptoms may be for other reasons. It is not always caused by COVID. If you have symptoms or questions Recommend to consult a neurologist for history taking. Further physical examination to determine the cause of symptoms
–
