New Delhi: “Brain fog” is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect your ability to think, concentrate, and remember. It can feel like a mental cloud, making even simple tasks like having a conversation or following instructions seem difficult. You might find yourself struggling to focus, feeling mentally drained, or forgetting things that you usually wouldn’t. Common symptoms of brain fog include:
- Difficulty concentrating or focusing
- Mental confusion or forgetfulness
- Fatigue and mental exhaustion
- Losing track of your thoughts
- Slow thinking or delayed reactions
- Trouble paying attention
Dr Avinash Kulkarni, Consultant Neurologist at Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Kengeri, Bengaluru, said, “One of the common experiences with brain fog is its connection to post-COVID conditions, also known as “long COVID.” Even people who didn’t need to be hospitalised after their COVID-19 infection report struggling with brain fog. For many, it’s a concerning symptom. I often see patients coming to my office, convinced they might have dementia due to their difficulty multitasking or focusing. After talking with them and examining their symptoms, it usually turns out they’re simply dealing with some mental fatigue or inattention—not dementia. Much like our bodies, our brains work better when we use them regularly. Today’s modern lifestyle—where we don’t need to memorise phone numbers or daily schedules—can lead to mental inactivity, contributing to brain fog, especially in younger individuals. However, in rare cases, brain fog could be an early sign of dementia, but it’s usually accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in behavior or difficulty managing daily activities.”
What Causes Brain Fog?
Brain fog can have several causes, including:
- Poor sleep
- Autoimmune conditions like lupus or multiple sclerosis
- Diabetes or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Mental health conditions like anxiety or depression
- Neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorder
- Hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy or menopause)
- Poor nutrition
- Chronic stress
- Long COVID
Is Brain Fog a Sign of Something Serious?
Research has shown that brain fog can sometimes be linked to chronic health conditions such as:
Vitamin deficiencies (B12 and D3)
Hypothyroidism
Chronic anemia
Uncontrolled diabetes
Alcohol liver disease or cannabis addiction
The good news is that many of these conditions are treatable, and addressing them can often help reduce brain fog symptoms.
How Can I Get Rid of Brain Fog?
Although there’s no specific treatment for brain fog, several strategies can help manage it:
- Improve your sleep routine to ensure better quality rest.
- Eat a balanced, nourishing diet that supports brain health.
- Engage in 30 minutes of physical activity daily.
- Write down important information to help with memory.
- Take short breaks throughout the day to avoid mental burnout.
- Consider cognitive behavioral therapy or other forms of psychotherapy to reduce stress.
How Long Does Brain Fog Last?
The duration of brain fog can vary. For some, it may last just a few days or weeks, while others may experience it for months or even years. If brain fog is affecting your daily life, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider who can help identify the cause and recommend treatment options.
Can Brain Fog Be Prevented?
While it’s not possible to completely prevent brain fog, you can take steps to improve your overall health and reduce your risk of experiencing it. Maintaining an active physical and mental lifestyle can help prevent brain fog from becoming a recurring issue. It can also be beneficial for delaying age-related memory decline.
When Should I See a Doctor About Brain Fog?
If you or someone you know is experiencing brain fog, it’s important to consult a neurologist. Many people feel frustrated and overwhelmed when they experience brain fog, as if their minds are buffering and they’re unable to complete tasks despite wanting to. If brain fog is impacting your day-to-day life, a healthcare professional can help determine its cause and guide you toward effective treatment.
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