COVID-19 Aftercare

COVID-19 Aftercare and Ongoing Neurological Symptoms

While most people recover from COVID-19, some continue to experience lingering symptoms weeks or even months after the initial infection. These ongoing effects — sometimes referred to as post-COVID conditions or “long COVID” — can significantly impact quality of life.

Common concerns include brain fog, memory problems, fatigue, mood changes, sleep disruption, and difficulty concentrating. For some individuals, especially those who required hospitalization or ICU care, recovery can also involve Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS), which may include long-term physical, cognitive, and psychological challenges.

As the medical community continues to study the long-term effects of COVID-19, treatment options are evolving. At Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach, we evaluate patients experiencing persistent neurological symptoms to determine whether an individualized, brain-based approach may be appropriate.

MeRT® (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy) is a non-invasive neuromodulation protocol that has been used to support patients with lingering cognitive and mood-related symptoms following COVID-19 infection. Outcomes vary by individual.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Find Out More About COVID-19 Aftercare

How COVID-19 Symptoms Can Persist

COVID-19 affects individuals differently. Some experienced severe illness requiring hospitalization, while others had relatively mild symptoms. However, ongoing research has shown that lingering symptoms can occur regardless of the initial severity of infection.

Post-COVID conditions may affect multiple body systems, including the brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys. Many individuals report persistent neurological and cognitive symptoms that interfere with daily life.

Common lingering concerns may include:

Shortness of breath
Muscle weakness
Ongoing fatigue
Inflammatory symptoms
Difficulty concentrating
Memory problems
“Brain fog”

Sleep disruption or insomnia
Anxiety
Depressive symptoms
PTSD-related symptoms
Changes in appetite or eating patterns
Increased substance use

The Broader Impact of COVID-19

COVID-19 affected nearly every aspect of daily life, whether or not someone contracted the virus. Changes in work, school, social connection, and access to medical care created significant stress for many individuals and families.

Early data from 2020 showed notable increases in reported symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, and stress-related concerns during the height of the pandemic. Since that time, researchers have continued to examine the long-term psychological and neurological effects associated with both COVID-19 infection and prolonged pandemic-related stress.

Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions may have been more vulnerable to worsening symptoms during this period. Others experienced new concerns, including anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD-related symptoms, and cognitive changes.

While much attention was focused on the physical effects of the virus, the emotional and neurological impact has also been significant for many people. Ongoing evaluation and support can be important for those who continue to experience lasting changes in mood, sleep, or cognitive function.

Brain-Based Support at Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach

At Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach, we offer Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy (MeRT), a non-invasive, medication-free neuromodulation approach.

MeRT uses FDA-cleared TMS equipment (cleared for Major Depressive Disorder and OCD) and is used off-label in clinical practice for a range of neurological and mood-related concerns.

Over the years, MeRT has been incorporated into care plans for patients experiencing brain dysregulation associated with conditions such as:

How MeRT May Support Post-COVID Symptoms

Some individuals recovering from COVID-19 report ongoing symptoms such as brain fog, mood changes, sleep disruption, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms may reflect changes in how certain brain networks are functioning.

MeRT is designed to evaluate patterns of brain activity using quantitative EEG (qEEG) and EKG data. This information helps our clinical team determine whether an individualized neuromodulation protocol may be appropriate.

It’s important to note that MeRT is not a cure for structural brain injury. However, in select patients, it may help support regulation of neural activity associated with mood, sleep, and cognitive performance.

Each treatment plan is personalized. Brainwave data from the qEEG helps guide the frequency, location, and stimulation parameters used during sessions.

Treatment is delivered using a magnetic coil placed against the scalp. Gentle magnetic pulses are administered to targeted brain regions in an outpatient setting. This process is known as neuromodulation.

Potential Benefits Reported by Patients

Results vary by individual. MeRT is not guaranteed to produce specific outcomes. Treatment decisions are made on a case-by-case basis following clinical evaluation.

Insurance and Payment Options

Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach is an out-of-network provider for most insurance plans. While we are unable to submit claims directly, we can provide you with a detailed superbill at the end of treatment, which you may submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Reimbursement, if any, depends on your individual policy.

Please note that we are unable to treat patients with Medicare or Medicaid.

rTMS is FDA-approved for Major Depressive Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The use of neuromodulation for other conditions is considered off-label, and insurance reimbursement for off-label applications is uncommon.

Some patients have reported partial reimbursement for qEEG testing or clinical evaluations, but coverage varies by plan.

Payment Options

We accept all major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

CareCredit is available as a financing option for qualified applicants. CareCredit is an independent healthcare financing company that may offer promotional financing options, including interest-free periods for eligible plans. Approval decisions are made directly through CareCredit.

If you have questions about coverage or payment, our team is happy to review your options before you begin treatment.

Contact Our New Patient
Coordinator for more Information on COVID-19 Aftercare

It’s normal for patients and their families affected by brain disorders to feel uncertain about treatment options and what is best. MeRT is a treatment protocol that has helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and get a whole new lease on life.

Our goal is to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not MeRT is the right treatment for you or your child. Our clinicians and technicians are passionate about helping you to heal.

Our New Patient Coordinator is available to answer any questions that you may have about how MeRT can help you specifically. She’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and put your mind at ease. She can also assist in getting you scheduled with the clinic should you decide to move forward with treatment.