What is Brain Fog?
First of all…It’s not dementia and it is more likely to get better as you pass through the perimenopause. But What is it? and why do we get it?
For me personally, I started to notice a blank moment or two when I could not remember the name of a drug I regularly prescribe. Then, after a brief feeling of panic, it would come. back to me.
Brain Fog can lead to problems with:
- Misplacing things
- Forgetting appointments
- Trouble remembering words
- Trouble concentrating.
It often inconveniently happens at the peaks of our careers too. Up to 40% of perimenopausal women feel that brain fog affects their work.
It happens because our brain, like so many other organs in our body, does have oestrogen receptors and when our oestrogen levels start to fall, this can case temporary, mild problems. Often it will get better on its own with time, and it doesn’t mean you are more likely to get dementia.
But what can we do to help?
Sleep and exercise are important as is having a healthy balanced diet. HRT can also help many of the menopause symptoms like hot flushes and let’s face it: If we are sleeping better because of fewer hot flushes this can only help our cognitive function. While we wouldn’t give HRT for brain fog on its own, if it’s happening in conjunction with other menopausal symptoms, HRT may be worth a shot! If it is just “Brain Fog” then it might be worth seeing your doctor to rule out other causes.
