Everything You Need To Know About Brain Fog

Have you ever experienced difficulty concentrating or feeling like your brain isn't working properly? This could be due to fatigue, but it could also signify the onset of menopause or long Covid-19 symptoms.

Feeling mentally drained and foggy-headed is a common problem, but it does not have a medical diagnosis. This set of symptoms is called "brain fog" and is characterised by difficulty concentrating, difficulty thinking clearly, and a feeling of mental sluggishness.

Not getting enough sleep or feeling stressed can cause difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and impaired functioning. These can all make it hard to complete regular, everyday tasks.

What Causes Brain Fog?

There are many health conditions and lifestyle factors that can cause brain fog, including:

• Nutritional deficiencies like vitamin B12
  
  
• Underactive thyroid
  
  
• Increased stress
  
  
• Depression
  
  
• Certain medications
  
  
• Lack of sleep

Brain fog is also associated with menopause, pregnancy, and Covid-19.

What Are The Symptoms Of Brain Fog?

Brain fog makes it hard to focus, remember things, or keep up with conversations. It can also make it difficult to think clearly and to complete tasks.

There are several common symptoms of this condition, including:

• Poor concentration
  
  
• Lost words
  
  
• Feeling confused or disoriented
  
  
• Forgetfulness
  
  
• Thinking more slowly
  
  
• Fuzzy thoughts

Other physical and mental health conditions, such as headaches and exhaustion, can cause brain fog symptoms.

What Does Brain Fog Feel Like?

An individual with brain fog feels confused or unclear mentally. Living in a thick fog can affect your thinking and acting ability. This feeling of mental haziness can cause difficulty in communication and a lack of energy. Brain fog can also cause difficulty concentrating and memory problems.

Sometimes, people mistake brain fog for other mental and physical health conditions like depression or dementia, so it's essential to speak to a doctor if you suspect you may be experiencing it.

What’s The Link Between Brain Fog And Menopause?

As women approach menopause, their levels of oestrogen and testosterone start to decline, which can lead to cognitive and memory problems. This decline is often called 'brain fog' and can lead to confusion, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating.

During perimenopause and menopause, the levels of hormones in the body decrease. This can cause various symptoms, including confusion, difficulty concentrating and memory loss.

You don't have to worry about the natural effects of menopause on the brain. It is possible to maintain a healthy brain through simple lifestyle changes. Even though brain fog can be troubling, there's no need to panic.

Can Covid-19 Cause Brain Fog?

Long Covid and even shorter Covid episodes can lead to brain fog in both genders. People who have been affected by Covid have reported experiencing this symptom.

Although the exact cause of long Covid-related brain fog is unknown, evidence has shown that Covid can have long-term effects on organs and tissues, including the brain. The intensity and effects of brain fog associated with long COVID-19 may change over time.

In case you are experiencing brain fog due to COVID-19, it is important to consult with a doctor. Many people have reported this symptom after shorter episodes of Covid-19.

How Can I Manage Brain Fog Symptoms?

1. Slow Things Down

Take regular moments to stop and refocus during the day. If you've just learned new information, find a quiet moment to process what you've learned.

2. Manage Your Stress

By engaging in mindfulness and meditation, you can become better equipped to deal with stress, be more aware of the present moment, and increase your capacity to remember things. These techniques can help you store and recall new information more effectively.

3. Stay Physically Active

Taking breaks throughout the day can also help to reduce stress and anxiety. In addition to increasing your energy level, exercise can also improve your overall mood.

4. Prioritize Your Sleep

To get quality sleep, maintain a consistent sleep schedule and avoid caffeine and other stimulants close to bedtime. Additionally, turning off electronic devices an hour before rest can help relax your mind and promote better sleep.

5. Exercise Your Brain

Memorising can be made more accessible by using visual cues and rhymes. Repetition of facts is also a great way to help your brain remember what it has learned.

How Can I Support Someone With Brain Fog?

Experiencing brain fog can make seemingly straightforward tasks become overly complex, leading to feelings of stress and anxiety.

Brain fog disrupts many people's lives, but plenty of help is available. You can help someone who is experiencing brain fog by doing the following:

• Please provide them with treatment options by referring them to a doctor
  
  
• Make sure they make lots of notes and take regular breaks
  
  
• Find a local support group for people suffering from brain fog
  
  
• Set reminders and alarms to keep them focused
  
  
• Adjust their learning or work environment if necessary

When Should I Speak To A Doctor?

Occurrences of brain fog, such as difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, and lack of motivation, are not uncommon. Often, these symptoms are temporary and result from factors like fatigue, illness, travel, or stress. Generally, these symptoms will pass without intervention.

If brain fog is causing you to forget important tasks, such as paying bills and navigating to familiar places, or is causing distress, it is recommended to visit a doctor.

If you have seen no improvement after making lifestyle changes, if your memory is declining, or if you are feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, it is essential to speak with a professional for advice.

Connect with one of our doctors at Mobi Doctor with the click of a button and receive the care you require.