COVID-19, a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, is currently the subject of intense research around the world. Because of its significant impact on the respiratory system, many of these studies are focused on understanding how COVID-19 affects the lungs. In this article, we take a look at some of the most recent studies on the effects of COVID-19 on the lungs.

   Pathological picture of the lungs

  In one study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine, researchers examined the lungs of people who died from COVID-19. They found abundant amounts of hemorrhagic congestion and clots in the lung vessels, suggesting that COVID-19 can lead to serious clotting disorders in the lungs.

   Long-term effects of COVID-19 on the lungs

  Another important area of research is the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the lungs. A study published in the journal Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that some patients after COVID-19 experience long-term lung problems, including reduced respiratory capacity and severe changes in CT images, such as fibrosis, even months after recovery.

   COVID-19 and minor pulmonary vessels

  Research published in Nature Medicine suggests that SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can harm the lungs in unexpected ways by attacking the walls of thin blood vessels. This finding may explain why some patients with COVID-19 experience low blood oxygen levels, even though their lungs are able to expand and contract normally.

   The site of infection in the lungs

  A study published in Nature suggests that the site where SARS-CoV-2 attacks the lungs may be crucial to the course of the disease. The researchers noted that patients whose infection began in the upper lungs often had a milder course of the disease.

  In conclusion, scientists around the world are conducting intensive research on the effects of COVID-19 on the lungs. These studies are providing us with valuable information to help us better understand how the disease works and how to treat it. As this research progresses, we can expect further discoveries to help us combat this global pandemic.