'When should I seek medical attention for brain fog?': Consult a doctor.

Many individuals have experienced momentary lapses of memory, such as forgetting a train of thought, a driving route, or a word choice.

If episodes last only a few seconds and are nothing to worry about, but persist, it may be necessary to seek medical advice.

Two medical doctors were consulted by Planet Chronicle Digital to identify the symptoms of "brain fog" and when it's necessary to seek medical attention.

What is brain fog?

Brain fog refers to a range of symptoms that can arise from impairments in brain functions, including thinking, memory, information processing, storage and retrieval, decision-making, paying attention, and performing tasks, according to Irene M. Estores, MD, an associate professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Florida College of Medicine in Gainesville, Florida, as reported by Planet Chronicle Digital.

Symptoms of the condition

The indicators of brain fog can include feeling confused about a familiar task or being mentally disoriented.

Estores stated that a person might encounter challenges with staying focused, maintaining concentration, remembering things, or finding the right words.

"Struggling to follow simple instructions or remember new information may also be a challenge for them."

According to Estores, other symptoms may include feeling confused and dazed, or being physically present but mentally absent.

What can cause these symptoms?

Medical experts assert that while individuals differ, certain factors contribute to brain fog.

Chronic sleep deprivation

A lack of sleep can lead to negative cognitive effects, including brain fog, as Estores pointed out.

"Long-term memory consolidation is crucial for getting a good night's sleep," she stated.

"The hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, thalamus, and parietal lobes are affected by the activity of neural circuits, which in turn impacts working memory, attention, and decision-making."

Chronic stress and pain

According to Estores, individuals who go through prolonged stressful situations, including pain, emotional and psychological trauma, and social seclusion, may experience cognitive impacts.

Brain fog can be triggered or worsened by pain medications and co-existing conditions, such as sleep disorders and depression.

Illness

According to Estores, brain fog can be caused by underlying medical conditions such as degenerative diseases like dementia and Parkinson's, as well as metabolic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

Trauma or infection can also play a role.

What to do about brain fog

According to Glen R. Finney, MD, professor of neurology at the Geisinger College of Health Sciences in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, the first step for those experiencing symptoms associated with brain fog is to prioritize "brain health."

Good sleep hygiene, regular exercise, a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress are all important for cognitive health.

Finney advised Planet Chronicle Digital that if the initial solution does not enhance the situation, one should inform their primary care provider about their symptoms, and they can evaluate their medications and look for any medical reasons, such as autoimmune disorders.

Some individuals with ongoing brain fog may benefit from cognitive rehabilitation with a speech language pathologist, occupational therapist, or psychologist, as suggested.

How is brain fog evaluated?

Imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans and vascular studies can be used to diagnose any existing conditions, according to Estores.

Additionally, doctors may suggest screening for other health issues, including diabetes, hypertension, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, she mentioned.

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Brain fog can be frustrating or scary, but practicing good brain health and talking with your primary care provider can likely ease your mind.