Causes of Brain Fog

As the name suggests, brain fog is primarily characterized by a general feeling of clouded vision and lack of clarity of thought. While many of you may be able to identify with these symptoms, do note that it is not a medically or psychologically recognized condition. Though it has affected thousands of people, even children, people assume this to be normal in several cases, and fail to identify it as a medical or psychological condition. Before we understand the different causes of brain fog, let us look at the symptoms that will help us identify it.

Symptoms

The symptoms that characterize brain fog are many and commonly experienced in situations of stress, low blood sugar levels, sleeplessness, etc. Listed here are some of the symptoms.

• Forgetfulness or loss of short-term memory.
• Decreased or poor attention span.
• The lack of spatial awareness.
• Lack of concentration and focus at any task.
• Depression and anxiety.
• Clouded thought process, where one may feel the inability to think clearly.

Let's now take a look at the different causes of this condition, and understand how they may be treated.

Causes

The causes range from physical conditions to emotional imbalances, and even certain biochemical causes. People may suffer from one or more of these conditions which may result in brain fog. However, it is advisable to first identify the causes and remember that the best way to treat any condition is to individually deal with any cause that may affect you.

Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels or hypoglycemia causes confusion, forgetfulness and irritability, and may even cause blackouts in extreme cases. Immediately taking care of low blood sugar requires consuming something sweet such as soda, or a chocolate.

Metal Toxicity: The symptoms of brain fog are experienced due to the exposure of human beings to heavy metals such as lead, mercury, aluminum, cadmium and arsenic. The collection of these metals in the brain result in brain fog, and are difficult to dispel from the human body. Excessive levels of copper in the body also result in feelings of confusion, disorientation, and mood swings. The excess of tissue calcium may make one get out of touch with reality, and experience the other symptoms of brain fog.

Leaky Gut Syndrome: When the gut or the intestinal lining becomes porous or 'leaky', it causes impure blood to become part of the circulatory system. When this blood reaches the brain, it causes several psychological symptoms such as fatigue, loss of concentration, memory loss, depression and anxiety.

Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields: Excessive exposure to electromagnetic fields, such as cell phones, or the T.V. screen or computer screen, radios, etc. cause several symptoms of brain fog, mainly confusion. The best way to treat this cause is to avoid prolonged use of these, and to keep them away while asleep.

Chronic Fatigue: You may already be aware of the effect that tiredness and fatigue has on your mind and body. It is not surprising then, that one of the most basic causes of brain fog is chronic fatigue. It is bound to make you feel groggy and contribute to loss of clarity of thought.

Adrenal Fatigue: The body's response to stress is controlled by hormones released by the adrenal glands. As such, adrenal fatigue contributes to the symptoms of brain fog, mainly the inability to deal with stress.

Candidiasis: Yeast infection or candidiasis can be one of the causes of brain fog. The presence of the candida organism in the human body causes the production of alcohol, and thus, a person affected by the same may behave as though intoxicated, followed by experiences of brain fog. Also, the dying of the yeast may release toxins that contribute to other symptoms of this condition.

Exposure to Certain Chemicals: Chemicals used for cleaning such as carpet cleaners, paints, pesticides, carbon monoxide and wood treatments, have caused serious symptoms of brain fog, due to prolonged exposure. Thus, one must maintain a significant distance from such chemicals.

Lack of Important Nutrients: The lack of important nutrients in the body such as fats (monounsaturated fatty acids), minerals such as calcium, selenium, magnesium, zinc, iodine chromium, proteins, and vitamins such as thiamine, choline, vitamin B6 and B12 , all contribute to the symptoms of brain fog. Especially the lack of vitamin B12 is an important factor. Just adhering to a balanced diet, that comprises all these nutrients in the balanced amount, will not only clear out brain fog but also positively affect overall well-being.

Consumption of Wrong Foods: Excessive consumption of foods such as MSG and artificial sweeteners are toxic and have found to evoke the symptoms of brain fog. Also, some people may be intolerant or allergic to ingredients such as lactose that cause these conditions.

Insomnia: Sleep deprivation or insomnia is one of the causes of brain fog, as lack of sleep affects normal brain function, thereby affecting one's mood, causing depression and anxiety. Lack of sleep also contributes to foggy mind, and thus, affects clarity of thought.

Poor Blood Circulation: The lack of proper blood circulation to the brain is also one of the causes of brain fog, that results in loss of short-term memory and lack of focus. It is important then, to engage in activities such as yoga, that will increase blood circulation to the brain.

Depression and Stress: Here, the symptoms are the causes itself. Increased stress levels, or chronic depression will further magnify the condition, and are bound to affect clarity of thought and memory.

Sometimes even taking certain medicines causes brain fog as a side effect. Even constipation can cause this condition. Identifying the causes of brain fog is possible only when you deal with them one by one. It may take some time, but it will eventually help you find the reason for this condition. When natural techniques to cure this condition fail, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional before the problem goes out of hand. After all, the brain is the most valuable organ of the human body, and we shouldn't just allow it to degenerate when it can be so beautifully put to use.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.