Post-COVID Vestibular and Neurological Symptoms

While many people recover from COVID-19 without complications, the last year has demonstrated a troubling medical phenomenon: post-COVID syndrome, or what some medical professionals call “long COVID.” This phenomenon involves individuals – even young, otherwise healthy people – who experience a variety of symptoms weeks or months after their initial COVID-19 infection. While the most common symptoms of post-COVID syndrome are fatigue, shortness of breath, and coughing, some patients report vestibular and even neurological symptoms. Read on to find out more about post-COVID symptom studies.

Post-COVID Vestibular and Neurological Symptoms

What Is Post-COVID Syndrome, or “Long COVID?”

First, let’s address the specifics of what doctors refer to as post-COVID syndrome. As mentioned above, most COVID-19 sufferers are able to recover completely within a few weeks. But, as the Mayo Clinic reports, some people – even those who had relatively mild COVID symptoms — may continue to experience symptoms after recovering from the virus. The Mayo Clinic calls this phenomenon “post-COVID-19 syndrome” or “long COVID-19.” Oddly enough, post-COVID symptoms can include a wide range of symptoms that didn’t affect the patient during the onset of the disease, including vestibular symptoms like dizziness and tinnitus. One study found dizziness to be the most common neurological manifestation of COVID-19.

How COVID-19 Leads to Vestibular and Neurological Symptoms

Before we dig into the specific neurological and vestibular symptoms suffered during long COVID cases, let’s explore how COVID impacts the vestibular system. As we’ve discussed before, the inner ear contains a sound-sensing spiral cavity, as well as several fluid-filled semicircular canals. Each of these contributes to our sense of balance. In research published in the International Journal of Audiology, experts found that COVID-19 may damage the inner ear in several ways. That includes direct viral infection of the inner ear or an autoimmune attack by antibodies or immune cells. This can also include blood clotting that potentially blocks the blood supply to the cochlea or semicircular canals. Any of these can lead to inner ear damage, causing long-term vestibular complaints.

Post-COVID Dizziness and Tinnitus

So, what specific symptoms are researchers witnessing? The International Journal of Audiology study cites multiple reports of hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. While these symptoms do have some basis in research, the researchers do note that some patients may have experienced vestibular issues prior to their COVID-19 diagnosis. Medical News Today writes: “Although the evidence remains tentative, the researchers have estimated the prevalence of audiovestibular problems among people who have recovered from a SARS-CoV-2 infection.” Specifically, researchers found that around 14.8 percent of patients experience tinnitus, 7.6 percent have hearing loss, and 7.2 percent have vertigo, or a spinning sensation. Ultimately, further research is needed to interpret the study’s estimates of hearing, dizziness, and balance issues associated with COVID-19.

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Further research is needed to truly determine the prevalence of certain symptoms associated with long COVID. However, one thing is certain: a percentage of the population struggles with these issues, and they deserve relief. Have you have recovered from COVID-19 and find yourself dealing with dizziness, balance issues, headaches, tinnitus, or other vestibular symptoms? If so, reach out to your doctor for support. As the medical community continues to research the effects of COVID-19, your symptoms matter.

Are you struggling with post-COVID neurological symptoms? Are you in need of medical advice and wondering where to turn? Reach out to the professionals at the National Dizzy & Balance Center. We specialize in diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders, including concussions and ongoing dizziness. Our talented team members can evaluate the extent of COVID-19 on your vestibular system and design a personalized plan to relieve your symptoms. To learn more about our approach to dizziness management, please contact us online or by phone. Or if you’re ready to get started, schedule your free medical consultation today.