Many Australians recovering from COVID-19 continue to experience lingering symptoms long after their initial infection. One of the most frustrating of these is brain fog—a mix of forgetfulness, poor concentration, and slowed thinking. For people living with post-viral fatigue syndromes, these issues can feel just as disruptive as physical exhaustion.
In recent years, researchers have begun to explore how red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, may help support cognitive function and restore mental clarity.
Understanding Brain Fog in Long COVID
Brain fog is much more than simply feeling tired or distracted. Many people with long COVID describe it as a heavy “mental cloud” that makes everyday tasks—like remembering names, following conversations, or staying focused—feel exhausting.
A 2023 study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation suggests that both neuroinflammation and reduced blood flow to the brain may play a central role in these symptoms (PubMed). This means that recovery isn’t just about rest and healthy habits—it may require therapies that directly target brain function.
How Red Light Therapy Works on the Brain
Red light therapy uses low-level wavelengths of light that penetrate through the skin and into deeper tissues, including the brain when applied correctly. These light waves can help stimulate cellular repair and boost energy production. When applied to the head, red light therapy may:
-
Enhance mitochondrial energy in brain cells, helping neurons fire more efficiently.
-
Reduce inflammation in the nervous system, which is strongly linked to post-viral fatigue.
-
Improve blood flow to the brain, increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery.
-
Support neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections.
These mechanisms are particularly relevant for people recovering from long COVID, where sluggish energy metabolism and ongoing inflammation may be prolonging symptoms.
What Research Is Showing
Clinical studies have already found encouraging results. Participants receiving transcranial photobiomodulation—red light therapy applied to the head—have reported improvements in memory, attention, and executive function.
Although larger-scale trials are still underway, the growing body of evidence suggests that red light therapy may be a safe, non-invasive way to help restore cognitive function without the side effects associated with pharmaceuticals.
A Gentle Approach to Recovery
If you’ve been dealing with long COVID brain fog, it’s understandable to feel frustrated with the slow pace of recovery. Many people have shared that even small improvements in clarity and focus can make a huge difference to daily life.
Because it’s non-invasive, drug-free, and comfortable to use, red light therapy offers a gentle option to support your brain’s natural healing process. Over time, it may help lift the fog, improve concentration, and make day-to-day activities more manageable.
If you’re curious to learn more, you can explore the benefits of pulsed low-level laser therapy and how it may support neurological recovery.
References:
Bowen R, Arany PR. Use of either transcranial or whole-body photobiomodulation treatments improves COVID-19 brain fog. J Biophotonics. 2023 Aug;16(8):e202200391. doi: 10.1002/jbio.202200391. Epub 2023 Apr 29. PMID: 37018063.
