Diabetes, High-Blood Pressure Increase Risk Of Brain Stroke In COVID Patients: Research

Research has found that COVID-19 patients suffering from hypertension or diabetes are at higher risk of brain stroke.

London: Researchers have found that 8 out of 10 hospitalized with severe COVID-19 suffered neurological complications. Diseases like diabetes and hypertension worsen the symptoms of COVID19. Patients with these pre-existing conditions may have to face more health issues.

Recent research has revealed that COVID-19 patients suffering from hypertension and diabetes are at higher risk of stroke. According to the report published in the journal Brain Communications, 267 cases of neurological and psychiatric problems related to COVID-19 were investigated in the UK.

The research was done at the University of Southampton. The researchers found that out of 267 cases, stroke was the most frequently reported condition, affecting about half of the patients.

More than a quarter of strokes occurred in patients under the age of 60, many of whom were diagnosed with modifiable risk factors, meaning that patients were already at risk for stroke. Delirium, psychiatric events, and evidence of brain damage were found as other common conditions. More than 10% of the patients experienced more than one neurological condition, and these patients were more likely to require intensive care and ventilation.

Analysis of neurological and psychiatric problems related to COVID-19

Researcher Amy Ross-Russell explained, "We looked at not only different neurological and psychiatric events but also how many of those conditions occurred simultaneously within the same patients. This suggests that the COVID-19 disease can affect multiple parts of the nervous system in a single patient. That's why it's important to understand why some strokes happen during COVID."

The results suggest that COVID-19 increases the risk of stroke but public health measures can reduce it. To avoid the risk of getting severe COVID-19 symptoms lifestyle modifications are necessary that can keep in check diabetes, high blood pressure, and blood sugar. Plus, getting vaccinated is also important.