What is brain fog?
Brain fog refers to that fuzzy feeling when your brain just isn’t working as well as it usually does. You’re having difficulty thinking straight and your memory is dicey. You’ve walked into a room for something and in the space of a few seconds, forgotten what it was. Words fail you, even simple ones you’ve known your whole life.
Why am I getting brain fog?
There are many things that could be causing your brain fog. Poor sleep, stress, illness, perimenopause, menopause, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, jet lag or medication to name a few.
In perimenopause and menopause, brain fog is often caused by oestrogen and testosterone (hormonal) changes.
Should I be worried about my brain fog?
Midlife brain fog, caused by perimenopause or menopause is temporary. When hormonal fluctuations stabilise again, your brain will return to normal.
However, if your brain fog severely interferes with work and daily activities, is persistent and/or gets worse, see your doctor to rule out other possible conditions.
Do I have dementia?
Probably not. Midlife brain fog caused by perimenopause or menopause is different to dementia because it will improve in time. Dementia causes consistent problems in a broader range of issues, including personality changes, and cognitive functions will continue to deteriorate.
What can I do to help my brain fog?
Brain fog may be improved with lifestyle changes. These include:
- physical exercise,
- mental exercises in whatever way you enjoy. For example crossword puzzles, sudokus, or chess,
- rest (also mindfulness and relaxation),
- diet – the Mediterranean diet has shown positive effects upon brain fog, as have foods that promote brain health such as fatty fish, nuts and seeds, as well as inflammation fighting foods such as ginger or turmeric. Supplements such as vitamin B12 may also help.
- maintaining social connections,
- help yourself by making use of diaries, lists and calendars to support memory and reduce anxiety.
What can a doctor do to help my brain fog?
A doctor can check your hormonal levels, screen other important levels via blood tests (iron, vitamin etc.) and discuss all the symptoms you’re experiencing and treat them if necessary.
As always, if you feel dismissed by your doctor, find another one.
Do you suffer from brain fog? Let us know in the comments how it affects you.
Take care xx
*Thank you to healthdirect.gov.au, Psychology Today Australia, Jean Hailes and Australian Menopause Centre for information found within this article.
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