Medical studies link Covid-19 sequelae to brain rhythms and arthritis pain to comorbidities

New research highlights the neurological and systemic complexities of long-term health issues. A study led by scientists from the Universidad del Desarrollo (UDD) suggests that Covid-19 sequelae are linked to changes in brain rhythms. Building on previous findings that anosmia (loss of smell) is associated with behavioral, functional, and structural brain changes, the updated study published in Scientific Reports compared 70 individuals who contracted SARS-CoV-2 with 26 who recovered from other respiratory infections. The research indicates that the virus impacts the central nervous system, potentially contributing to ongoing cognitive problems.

In a separate study, researchers from Semmelweis University investigated why pain persists in patients with rheumatoid arthritis despite successful reduction of inflammation. Published in Nature Reviews Rheumatology and The Lancet Rheumatology, the analysis found that factors such as depression, smoking, obesity, and sleep disorders can create a “vicious cycle” that maintains the disease. These comorbidities can reduce physical activity and worsen mood, making the condition difficult to treat for the 6% to 28% of patients who do not achieve lasting remission through standard goal-oriented therapies.