Brain Fog in Women
Do you have trouble finding your words? Or maybe you run into your neighbor and suddenly can’t remember her name? Don’t worry—you aren’t going crazy. Forgetfulness, losing your train of thought, and feeling fuzzy headed are common during perimenopause and menopause.
Causes of Brain Fog
Estrogen and Progesterone
Estrogen and progesterone both act as neurotransmitters affecting key portions of the brain that are devoted to memory and cognition.
In particular, estrogen helps to dilate blood vessels in the brain. Dilated blood vessels means better blood flow. Better blood flow means better brain function. And better brain function means better memory, clearer thinking, and greater concentration.
Thyroid
Low thyroid is common during perimenopause and menopause and can have a detrimental effect on memory and concentration.
Stress and Cortisol
The numerous changes caused by imbalanced hormones causes stress. You might be having hot flashes. Or perhaps you’ve gained weight. You might be depressed or anxious, or you may have insomnia. Any one or all of these can be stressful.
So…what exactly does stress have to do with where you put your car keys? Everything. Your body releases excess cortisol in response to stress, and excess cortisol negatively impacts memory and cognition.
Treatment for Brain Fog
If you can’t think clearly, we have solutions. Our physicians can develop a hormone replacement program that will help you to regain your mental acuity. Say goodbye to brain fog. Say hello to the new you.