Do you ever notice that your ability to think feels sluggish or fuzzy?
You might be experiencing whats commonly known as brain fog.
While not technically a medical or scientific term, it describes a temporary sensation of reduced mental acuity.
Read on to learn more.
Definition of Brain Fog
Brain fog isnt something doctors diagnose their patients with.
That said, here are a few common causes to consider.
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Medications
Certain medications may cause brain fog as a side effect.
I warn patients that it can cause cloudy thinking, confusion, and word-finding difficulty, Wilhour says.
In addition, multiple medications also called polypharmacy can be another factor in brain fog, she says.
(Dont stop taking prescribed meditation without first consulting your physician.)
Brain fog can be normal, especially if youre stretched thin.
Beyond that, these expert-recommended lifestyle tweaks mayhelp you beat brain fog.
(Walking counts.)
Exercise activates the brain but also tires you out, helping you sleep better at night, says Pudumjee.
Sleep Well
Aim for at least seven hours of sleep per night, says Wilhour.
And maintain aconsistent rest schedule.
Go to bed and wake up at the same time, she advises.
In general, you wont be as efficient the following day, says Wilhour.
Sleep should be a priority for everyone.
Manage Your Stress
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We have a primitive brain and a more advanced brain.
Getting a handle on stress will help you stay more in the thinking brain.
She was previously an assistant editor atPreventionwhere she wrote monthly science-based beauty news items and feature stories.
