Brain Fog

Brain fog is a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that can affect a person's cognitive abilities. These symptoms can include confusion, disorganization, difficulty focusing, and difficulty putting thoughts into words. Brain fog is not a medical condition in and of itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying issue. It has been frequently reported as a symptom of COVID-19, but can also be caused by factors such as sleep deprivation, stress, certain medications, and certain medical conditions.

What are the symptoms of brain fog?

Additional symptoms of brain fog include:

  • Difficulty expressing thoughts or finding the right words
  • Fatigue or lack of energy
  • Difficulty with mental tasks that were previously easy to complete
  • Disorganization or difficulty with planning or decision making
  • A feeling of being mentally "cloudy" or "unclear"
  • Difficulty with spatial awareness or coordination
  • Mood changes such as depression or anxiety
  • Headaches or physical discomfort

It's worth noting that brain fog symptoms can vary from person to person and can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions such as poor sleep, stress, anxiety, depression, lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, certain medical conditions and some medications.

How long does brain fog last?

In some cases, brain fog can be a chronic issue. For example, if it is caused by a chronic medical condition such as fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, it can last for months or even years. If it is caused by a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety, it can also be a long-term issue. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience brain fog symptoms that persist for an extended period of time, as it can be an indication of an underlying condition that needs to be addressed.

What are the Causes of Brain Fog?

On a cellular level, brain fog is believed to be caused by high levels of inflammation and changes to hormones that determine your mood, energy, and focus. This imbalance can be caused by, but not limited to, the following:

It's worth noting that brain fog can be caused by a combination of factors, and it may take some time to identify the underlying cause. Consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How is brain fog treated?

Conventional medicine treats the symptoms of brain fog by first doing blood work and any other relevant testing to determine if there is a medical cause. Brain fog itself is not often treated, but rather the condition causing it. There is also some advice on managing poor memory such as making lists, taking more time to complete tasks, and taking breaks while working on something that requires concentration. Other recommendations can be regular exercise, practicing mindfulness, minimizing stress, and getting enough sleep at night.

Ananta Health works with the body to reduce physical and emotional symptoms, so that the root cause of the brain fog can be identified. This process starts by assessing the patient's history and testing with the BioScan SRT. It is important to identify physical causes or contributors to stress such as candida, parasites, Lyme disease, post-viral syndrome, food sensitivities and allergies or poor diet, heavy metal toxicity and environmental sensitivities. Treatment will often include traditional Chinese medicine, diet and lifestyle changes and supplements and herbs according to each patient's needs.

Can acupuncture help brain fog?

Yes, acupuncture can help brain fog. Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medical practice that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to help balance the body's energy, known as Qi, which in turn can improve cognitive function and reduce brain fog. Acupuncture can also help reduce stress and improve sleep, which can also help alleviate brain fog. Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve cognitive function and reduce symptoms of brain fog in individuals with conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and post-concussion syndrome. It is important to note that the effectiveness of acupuncture will vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of brain fog.