The coronavirus is new to the humankind and its effect and severity on the overall health are yet being studied. So far, people with chronic ailments like asthma, heart problem, and renal disorders have been asked to be extra careful and follow maximum precautions. However, Dr. Jaideep Bansal, HOD-Consultant, Neurology, Saroj Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi, feels that the deadly COVID-19 puts those with neurological ailments at an elevated risk.
“Though the potential of the coronavirus can affect any organ or body part should be considered omnipresent, as it appears. While the various study also shows the potential impact of the COVID on the neurons, putting those with neurological ailments at an elevated risk,” Dr. Jaideep Bansal said.
“It is necessary to be aware of the possibility of various neurological manifestations of Covid-19, both during acute illness as well as the possibility of long-term effects, or on people with pre-existing conditions. People with pre-existing conditions or undergoing treatment for epilepsy, Parkinson’s Disease, or those who have had a history of a stroke attack, may be highly vulnerable to elevated symptoms like seizures, loss of steadiness, dizziness, impaired consciousness, cognitive impairment or even loss of smell and taste,” he added.
Alzheimer’s disease, also known as forgetfulness, is a progressive disorder that causes brain cells to waste away and die and infection of COVID poses a greater threat.
Huntington’s disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes cognitive and psychiatric impairment due to progressive degeneration of the neurons in the brain. This disease has a great impact on the person’s functional abilities and is usually symptomatic after 30 years of age. With a wide spectrum of symptoms, varying from person to person, it causes movement cognitive and psychiatric disorders.
However, the doctor suggested the people should aim to a healthy well-balanced diet and physically active to keep themselves safe from coronavirus.
