If you've ever heard the phrase 'brain fog' and dismissed it as a buzzword, you may be surprised to find out that it is not only a real thing, but it affects far more people than you might think. Understanding the basics of brain fog and the types of brain performance testing that can help diagnose it may make it easier for you to recognize the symptoms if you're experiencing them.
Here's a look at some of the things that you should know about brain performance and testing.
What Causes Brain Fog?
Brain fog most often results from a decline in brain performance for one of many reasons. Whether it's due to a cognitive illness such as Alzheimer's, an autoimmune disease, or other causes, brain fog can be disruptive to your daily life.
Not only can these factors lead to brain fog, but symptoms can also be the result of stress, anxiety, insomnia, brain injuries, and infections. There are so many possible conditions that can cause brain fog that it's important to seek medical attention and request a brain performance test to help you diagnose the problem.
Who Should You See About Brain Fog?
The first medical care professional you should turn to is your primary care doctor. Express your concerns and describe the challenges that you're facing. You might find it easier to make notes of symptoms and struggles as they occur so that you have them in writing when you see your doctor.
They will typically refer you to a neurology specialist who will evaluate your medical history and then conduct a battery of tests to determine how your brain is performing and what causes there may be for any declines.
What Kinds Of Brain Performance Testing Can You Expect?
When it comes to assessing brain fog issues, the initial testing will usually start with a physical examination and bloodwork to test for any signs of infection or inflammation. Then, they will often ask for brain imaging, such as with an MRI and a CT scan. You might also be asked to meet with a psychologist for an assessment, too.
All of these things are important to understand when it comes to addressing brain fog. Whether you're struggling with clarity and focus or you just feel disconnected, reach out to your care provider today for more support. They can talk with you about your symptoms and help you determine what the source of the problem is.
