Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) is becoming increasingly recognized in children after Long COVID. Once thought to be purely psychological, FND is now understood as a real disorder of brain function. In children with FND, the brain has difficulty sending and receiving proper signals, even though there’s no structural damage. This means a child may experience symptoms that look like other neurological conditions—such as seizures, paralysis, or vision problems—but standard medical tests come back “normal.”
For families, this can be confusing and frightening. A child may seem to lose mobility, speech, or balance almost overnight, yet doctors sometimes struggle to explain why. It’s important to know that these symptoms are not “in their head.” FND is a genuine neurological condition triggered by the stress Long COVID places on the body and nervous system.
Yes. Long COVID can act as a trigger for Functional Neurological Disorder. Viral infections like COVID-19 place enormous strain on the nervous system. For some children, this overwhelms the brain’s ability to process signals, leading to sudden disruptions in movement, sensation, or speech.
FND symptoms may appear unpredictable—sometimes worse during stress and better when a child feels calm. This doesn’t mean the condition is imaginary or controllable. Instead, it reflects how the nervous system itself is struggling to regulate properly. Recognizing that Long COVID can cause FND validates a child’s experience and helps families seek the right care.
The goal is not to suppress symptoms temporarily, but to help the nervous system reset and heal. With consistent treatment, many children see meaningful improvements that restore daily function and independence.
If your child is experiencing symptoms of FND after Long COVID, early action is essential. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances for recovery. At The Spero Clinic, we specialize in helping children and families navigate complex post-viral conditions with hope, compassion, and expertise.
Schedule a Zoom consultation today to find out if our program is the right fit for your child and family. Together, we can begin the journey toward healing.
Disclaimer: The information written on this website is designed to provide helpful information on various conditions and the subjects discussed. This website is not meant to be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition or to replace the advice of your physician(s). The author of this website does not claim to treat, diagnose or cure Long COVID, CRPS, EDS/POTS, AMPS, or any other specific condition or infection. The Spero Clinic treats the central nervous system only, often resulting in the body being able to heal itself.
You should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to your health, particularly with respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician(s).
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