Brain fog is a condition that has become common during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is characterized by symptoms such as confusion, forgetfulness and lack of mental clarity and can affect daily life. However, the condition existed long before the coronavirus outbreak.
Factors like lack of sleep, stress and autoimmune diseases like lupus and fibromyalgia can also contribute to the condition. Additionally, some women experience the condition during their menstrual period. Dr Sandhya Rani, Principal Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aster Maternity Hospital, Bangalore, attributes this association to hormonal changes that are common during this time.
Read more: Menopause Brain Fog: How to Recognize It?
What causes mood swings during menstruation?
According to Dr Rani, the main cause of brain fog during menstruation is hormonal changes, particularly changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes affect neurotransmitters in the brain, which can lead to cognitive impairments like memory loss and difficulty concentrating.
She adds that this foggy feeling can also be caused by anxiety, lack of sleep and poor nutrition.
According to a review article published in the journal Frontiers of Neuroscience in 2015, sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone play an important role in shaping the brain by influencing neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are particularly important in brain regions such as the hippocampus, known for their involvement in learning and memory. However, the study did not explore the link between hormonal fluctuations and brain fog. In fact, studies have confirmed that there is no association between brain fog and hormonal changes that occur before menstruation.
Further research is needed to elucidate this association.
Are some women more susceptible to menstrual-related brain disorders?
Yes, that’s certainly true!
“Some women are more susceptible to brain confusion during their period than others,” says Dr. Rani.
This includes people with pre-existing conditions such as PMS (premenstrual syndrome) or PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), who doctors say tend to suffer the most.
Additionally, she adds, women who are too stressed, sleep too little, or lack essential nutrients may experience period-related cognitive impairment.
Read more: Have you ever felt like you lacked mental clarity? Could it be brain fog? Read on to find out
How can I reduce menstrual confusion?
There are many effective strategies to control and clear brain clutter during menstruation. Dr. Rani recommends eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
“Including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein in your diet can boost your overall brain health. “Flaxseeds and fish contain super beneficial omega-3 fatty acids,” she says, and she also recommends avoiding alcohol and caffeine in general during your period.
Mindfulness and yoga can also help manage stress, while drinking plenty of water and avoiding excess sugar can also help stabilise energy levels and support proper thought patterns.
Dr Rani concludes that if symptoms are severe, it is important to seek medical help for personal insight.
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