What is brain fog?
Hey, girl! I’m glad you’re here. Sometimes, we can experience some confusing things. Some symptoms might surprise you, that are caused by hormones or other things happening in your life. Have you ever heard the term “brain fog?” Brain fog is a term to describe when you feel mentally unclear, forgetful, and unable to concentrate.1 It’s like having a cloudy mind that makes it hard to focus and remember things.
This can be really frustrating, I get it. Especially when you have a lot to do. Whether you’re in school, at work, doing a hobby, or simply getting things done at home, brain fog can make you feel like you’re moving a little slower than usual. Your brain might take a little longer to process things. But don’t lose hope! Sometimes, you can pinpoint a reason for your brain fog. Thankfully, there are ways you can mitigate this odd symptom and get to feeling like yourself again. So, we’ve covered, “what is brain fog,” but what makes it happen in the first place?
What causes brain fog?
Brain fog might happen for several reasons, including:
– Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes can affect your brain and your ability to concentrate and think clearly.2 During your period, pregnancy, and menopause, your body experiences hormonal shifts. Having trouble concentrating? Your hormones might be the culprit! 3
– Fatigue: If you are feeling fatigued, it can really affect your state of mind. You might have a hard time focusing or getting things done. Fatigue can be caused by not getting enough sleep, too much or too little activity, abusing alcohol or drugs, or a poor diet.4,5
– Stress: Being very stressed out can make your brain feel overwhelmed. That can make it hard to concentrate or focus.6
– Pregnancy: Many women report feeling brain fog during pregnancy. There could be a number of reasons why, including changes in the brain and hormones.7
– Depression and anxiety: These mental health issues can make it hard to think clearly and remember things.8
– Long-term COVID-19 effects: Some people who have had COVID-19 still feel brain fog even after they recover.1
– Post-chemotherapy recovery: Some cancer patients experience “chemo brain” after chemotherapy, which affects their thinking.9
Important to know
If you’re wondering, “what is brain fog?” because you’re feeling fuzzy, it’s a good idea to try to identify the cause.
Have you been really stressed lately?
Have you been sleeping well?
Are you expecting your period soon?
Have you been sexually active? Did your last period come or did it skip?
If you think pregnancy might be causing your brain fog, it’s important to take a pregnancy test to be sure. ThriVe+ offers free, lab-quality pregnancy tests in a private and supportive environment. We don’t judge. Our services are by women, for women.
How to Fight Brain Fog
Here are some ways to help get rid of brain fog:
1. Get quality sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of good sleep each night. A well-rested brain works much better.10
– Try setting a sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
– Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Read a book. Take a warm bath before bed to help you relax. I know it’s hard to keep a regular routine, but once you start, it’ll get easier!
2. Eat well: Eat a healthy diet to give your brain the nutrients it needs to work well.10
– Eat fruits and vegetables: These are full of vitamins and minerals that are good for your brain.
– Choose whole grains and proteins: When you’re concerned about what is brain fog, your diet actually plays a big role. Foods like berries, nuts, and whole grains help your brain stay sharp.10
3. Exercise regularly: Physical activity increases blood flow to your brain and can improve your thinking.10
– Get moving every day: Try to be active for at least 30 minutes each day. This could be walking, playing a sport, or dancing.
– Try something new: Find new exercises you enjoy so it doesn’t feel like a chore. Mix things up a bit!
4. Exercise your brain: Just like exercise can help keep your body in shape, challenging your brain can keep your mind sharp.10
– Learn something new! Take up a new hobby, read a book, or do a crossword puzzle.
– Find ways to connect with others like volunteering.
Brain fog checklist
What is brain fog? Use this checklist to see if you might have it. Check off any statements that describe how you feel:
1. Mental Clarity
– ☐ I often feel mentally unclear or like my mind is in a fog.
– ☐ It’s hard for me to think clearly or focus on tasks.
2. Memory Issues
– ☐ I frequently forget things, even if they just happened.
– ☐ I have trouble remembering important information or appointments.
3. Concentration Problems
– ☐ I find it difficult to concentrate for long periods.
– ☐ My mind often wanders when I’m trying to focus.
4. Feeling Overwhelmed
– ☐ I feel overwhelmed by simple tasks that I used to handle easily.
– ☐ I often feel mentally exhausted or drained.
5. Mental Fatigue
– ☐ I feel mentally tired, even when I haven’t done much thinking.
– ☐ I struggle to stay awake or alert during the day.
6. Decision Making
– ☐ I have trouble making decisions, even small ones.
– ☐ I feel indecisive and unsure about what to do next.
7. Overall Well-being
– ☐ I feel more anxious or stressed than usual.
– ☐ I feel sad or down more often, and it’s affecting my ability to think clearly.
If You Checked Several Boxes:
What is brain fog? If you checked several of the boxes, you might have it sometimes. Here are some steps you can take:
– Try to get more sleep.
– Eat a healthy diet.
– Exercise regularly.
– Take regular breaks to relax and clear your mind.
When to seek help
If these steps don’t help, consider talking to a healthcare provider. You deserve to feel confident in your health. You shouldn’t have to live with chronic brain fog!
You are important
Remember, you are valuable. Your health is important. ThriVe+ wants to help you with medically accurate info about women’s health. We’re here to help if you have questions about sexual health, abortion, or pregnancy. By reading up on what is brain fog, you’re already taking steps to understand your body better. You’re equipping yourself to feel better and live a healthier life. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—you deserve it.
Sources:
3https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premenstrual-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20376780
4https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/fatigue/basics/definition/sym-20050894
5https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/fatigue/basics/causes/sym-20050894
6https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-symptoms/art-20050987
7https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8190150/
8https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mood-disorders/symptoms-causes/syc-20365057
9https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chemo-brain/symptoms-causes/syc-20351060
10https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/brain-health-tips/art-20555198