Concentration problems are reported in 6% of cases 7 to 9 months after COVID-19 infection and 7.4% at 12 months. With the Omicron variant, the prevalence of this symptom is reported in 3.3% of cases 3 months after primary infection.
This most often involves minor forgetfulness and a high propensity to become tired, with difficulty concentrating for an extended period or in a sustained manner, and a difficulty to multitask. These symptoms are debilitating and have a major impact on patients, especially those who are professionally active. For those who have been signed off work for an extended period, a neuropsychological assessment is offered to provide a clearer clinical picture.
Although not fully understood, these symptoms do not seem to be related to any progressive neurological disease involving the death of nerve cells (such as Alzheimer's disease). They gradually improve without treatment.
An examination of the associated symptoms should allow for the investigation of other neurological disorders, tiredness and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression or anxiety, which are also major causes of cognitive disorders.
How do we test for it ?
There is currently no scientific evidence that laboratory tests are necessary unless other causes of cognitive disorders are being investigated.
How is it treated ?
Those affected can partially or completely recover their ability to concentrate through cognitive rehabilitation, while preserving their daily energy levels. Resources are not always available or reimbursed for cognitive rehabilitation, but you can do it as part of your everyday life by focusing on some cognitive tasks without exhausting your daily energy reserves. This may include paying bills, reading two or three pages of a book, holding conversations for increasingly long periods of time or playing games that require coordination or concentration (crossword puzzles, sudoku, board games, etc.). If the cognitive symptoms are the same as symptoms of post-traumatic stress, depression or anxiety, specialized psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care can also help to improve them.
Different exercises to better manage your concentration problems :
What about work ?
For those who are professionally active (work, school etc.), resuming intellectual activity – gradually, if necessary – allows for cognitive retraining. Patients who tire very easily should be offered a lighter workload or a phased return to work.
Interdisciplinary care is recommended.
