Brain fog is a condition of impaired cognitive performance. It can manifest itself in many symptoms that cause those affected to perceive everything “as if in a fog”. You can find out more about causes and treatment here.
On some days, we are particularly distracted and find it difficult to concentrate. For example, if you have slept badly or are very worried about something, this can also make it difficult to put your thoughts into clear words.
However, if this gets out of hand, it could be a sign of impaired cognitive performance, also known as “brain fog”. By this, doctors mean a condition that makes it difficult for those affected to think clearly.
Brain fog can manifest itself through various symptoms and can itself be a symptom of various brain dysfunctions. Here you can find out what causes brain fog and what measures can be taken to combat it.
WHAT IS IT? THE DEFINITION
Those affected by brain fog have difficulty thinking clearly. Brain fog is not a disease in itself, but a symptom of other diseases. It can be caused by various brain dysfunctions, which can manifest themselves in a variety of mental impairments.
Brain fog can be accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Lack of concentration
- Orientation difficulties
- difficulty finding words
- sudden forgetfulness
- mental exhaustion
- listlessness
Because the symptoms of brain fog are also characteristic of other diseases, there are no specific criteria for diagnosing the condition itself. Therefore, the diagnosis (of the underlying disease) is usually made in several steps through various examinations and tests, first in the family doctor’s office and then, if necessary, by neurological specialists.
THE CAUSES
Alcohol abuse can be a cause of brain fog. There is no single cause of brain fog. Rather, brain fog can occur as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle that is associated with mental stress, as well as in connection with mental and physical illnesses.
The causes can be manifold.
Lifestyle:
- Stress
- Sleep deprivation
- Diet (lack of vitamin B12 or the consumption of certain foods to which you are allergic, such as peanuts or dairy products)
- Lack of fluids
- Alcohol and drug abuse
Physical/medical:
- Hormonal changes, for example during pregnancy
- Taking medication
- Chemotherapy for cancer (“chemo brain”)
- Anemia
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- diabetes
- migraine
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Autoimmune diseases (multiple sclerosis, arthritis, etc.)
Viral infections, such as Sars-Cov-2 infection
Psychological:
- Anxiety
- depression
- stress
Given the multitude of possible causes, it is not always easy to find out why a person is suffering from brain fog. This can further increase the already high level of suffering. According to Dr. Claudia Stichtmann, a specialist in neurology at the Oberberg Clinics, it is important to clarify the causes so that the symptoms can be better classified and their treatment can be tackled.
HOW IS IT TREATED
Depending on the cause of the brain fog, sport can be a measure to alleviate it. Just as the causes of brain fog vary from case to case, so too can the treatment. There is no specific medication for this condition, which is why the underlying conditions or other causes are treated:
If the brain fog is due to anemia, for example, you can take iron supplements in consultation with a doctor.
If the brain fog is due to an autoimmune disease, your doctor can recommend a suitable medication.
In the case of underlying depression, in addition to medication, therapy (not only) against brain fog can also help.
As the development of brain fog can also be linked to an unhealthy lifestyle, you can alleviate the symptoms yourself with accompanying measures:
- a balanced and nutritious diet
- Adequate fluid intake
- abstaining from alcohol
- an active lifestyle
- sufficient sleep
- stress management
Depending on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying illnesses, the treatment of brain fog can take weeks to years.
BRAIN FOG VS DEMENZIA
Dementia is a disease in which those affected gradually lose the abilities and skills they have acquired throughout their lives. It is usually caused by circulatory disorders in the brain. Alzheimer’s is a common form of dementia that is caused by the loss of nerve cells. There is also forgetfulness in old age, which often occurs in older people. It is a mild disorder that is reversible and can be stabilized.
