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Cognitive and sleep alterations in post-COVID-19 syndrome
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Keywords

Post-COVID-19 syndrome
Cognition
Sleep

How to Cite

Cognitive and sleep alterations in post-COVID-19 syndrome. (2025). Electronic Journal Collection Health, 25(5), e19907. https://doi.org/10.25248/reas.e19907.2025

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Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the main changes in cognition and sleep in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome. Methods: Cross-sectional analytical study. A total of 51 patients aged 18 years or older with post-COVID-19 syndrome presenting cognitive and sleep complaints were assessed using a self-designed form and validated questionnaires for cognition (MoCA and MoCA-B) and sleep (Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Sleep Disturbance Questionnaire, and Insomnia Severity Index). Results: The sample predominantly consisted of females (80.4%), with a mean age of 59.9 years, and mild COVID-19 severity (52.9%). Neurocognitive complaints (90.2%) and sleep disturbances (96.1%) were prevalent, occurring regardless of disease severity. Cognitive impairments were mainly related to short-term memory, while sleep issues involved sleepiness and fatigue. On the MoCA and MoCA-B tests, 81.57% exhibited mild cognitive impairment. Sleep tests revealed impacts on both sleep quality and quantity, with no significant correlation between sleep disturbance tests and grouped cognitive assessments. Conclusion: The impacts on cognition and sleep in post-COVID-19 syndrome require attention from healthcare teams intervening in this population, as they are prevalent and may lead to biopsychosocial impairments.

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