New research published in the Annals of Neurology has found that younger and middle-aged adults experience worse long COVID symptoms compared to older adults. The study, conducted at Northwestern Medicine, analyzed data from 1,300 patients with neurologic long COVID symptoms between May 2020 and March 2023.
Long COVID symptoms, which include headaches, numbness and tingling, smell and taste problems, blurred vision, depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, and decreased cognitive function, occurred regardless of the severity or initial presentation of COVID-19. The study highlights that younger adults (ages 18-44) experienced more severe symptoms on average, ten months after their initial infection.
This finding has significant public health implications, given that about 30% of COVID patients develop some long COVID symptoms. Younger adults are particularly affected, as they contribute to the workforce and provide innovation and productivity. Dr. Igor Koralnik, chief of neuroinfectious diseases at Northwestern Medicine, emphasized the importance of providing treatment and rehabilitation services for people of all ages suffering from Long COVID.
The study underscores the need for better support and resources for individuals experiencing long-term effects of COVID-19. With over 2,800 patients treated to date, the Neuro COVID-19 Clinic is working to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life for those affected by this condition.
Source: https://news.nm.org/new-research-shows-younger-and-middle-aged-adults-have-worse-long-covid-symptoms-than-older-adults