Your ability to think and focus can change like the weather, from clear to cloudy. Many of us are affected by brain fog from time to time. Thankfully, there are often things you can do to brush off the mental haze.
Brain fog isn't a diagnosis. It's simply another way to describe murky or fuzzy thinking. You might experience:
• Trouble concentrating.
• Fatigue.
• Forgetfulness.
• Losing your train of thought.
• Trouble finding the right words to express your thoughts.
• Delayed reaction time.
• Confusion.
Often, brain fog is the result of temporary life stressors. Lack of sleep is one of the most common culprits. High stress, drug or alcohol use, excessive screen time, poor nutrition, or jet lag can also leave you mentally muddled.
Sometimes brain fog stems from an underlying medical condition. Many people have slow or cloudy thinking after a COVID-19 infection, for example. Hormonal changes during menopause or pregnancy can also cause it. Migraines, depression, autoimmune conditions and even certain medications can factor in too.
Lifestyle changes can often help boost your energy and clear the cobwebs. You can:
- Get good-quality sleep. Keep consistent bed- and wake times and avoid screens before going to sleep.
- Stick with healthy habits. Choose healthy foods, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
- Be active. Even short, brisk walks can make a difference.
- Pace yourself. Plan your to-do list based on your energy level, split tasks into manageable pieces and rest when you need to.
- Take advantage of mornings. Save your most demanding tasks for the a.m., when you're likely to feel most alert.
Brain fog often lifts after a few days. But if it's sticking around for more than a few weeks, let your doctor know. Together you can talk about ways to cope and decide if you should be assessed for underlying health conditions.
Watson Clinic’s
Family Medicine or
Internal Medicine specialists can offer additional guidance on helping you avoid episodes of brain fog. Call 863-680-7190 to schedule an appointment. If your symptoms indicate a more serious condition, swift referrals can be made to our
Neurology department. Call 863-680-7300 or visit
WatsonClinic.com/Neurology for more information.
Sources: AARP; American Academy of Family Physicians; American Academy of Neurology; American Brain Foundation; American Cancer Society; BrainLine; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; HelpGuide; Lupus Foundation of America; Office on Women's Health