ICU – “I See You” Podcast
Brain Fog
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This episode of the ICU Podcast addresses “brain fog.” It kind of sounds like some sort of weather pattern. What is brain fog, and why do so many vestibular patients experience it? Some people describe it as forgetfulness, confusion, a lack of focus, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, or a vague sense of blurry thinking, as if their head is in the clouds. When the brain dedicates a great deal of energy to maintaining equilibrium and staying steady, activities such as recalling details or using short-term memory may become more difficult, and thinking may seem slow. This is NORMAL. This episode features a patient who knows about brain fog all too well, and a doctor who has helped thousands of women learn to manage this frustrating symptom.
Guests
Dr. Kathleen Jordan is the Chief Medical Officer at Midi, a virtual care clinic for women going through menopause and perimenopause. She has personally experienced the struggle to find a healthcare provider she can consider a partner in her journey toward wellness. She created Midi to put high-quality, patient-centered care within reach for all women at midlife. As an expert in women’s health, Dr. Jordan is very familiar with brain fog, otherwise known as “menopause brain”, and has some great suggestions for how to recognize and manage it.
Ann Walder has struggled with migraines all her life. The word Vestibular Migraine entered her vocabulary after an illness that damaged her inner ears when she was 48. Early on, Ann says her brain fog was fierce. She was blessed to connect with the vestibular community and find qualified healthcare providers early in her journey. Her family has been very supportive, and she has found many friends among VeDA’s ambassadors. She currently works as an activity specialist with the elderly, and says that helping others brings her true happiness.
Hosts
Cynthia Ryan, Executive Director of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA)
Kimberly Warner, Founder and Director of Unfixed Media
This podcast is a co-production of the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) and Unfixed Media.
Summary
The ICU Podcast recently explored the complex world of brain fog, featuring insights from Dr. Kathleen Jordan, a women’s health expert, and Ann Walder, a VeDA ambassador with personal experience battling vestibular migraines. The conversation revealed that brain fog is a widespread phenomenon affecting millions, particularly those with vestibular disorders and individuals navigating midlife hormonal changes.
Ann Walder’s journey began dramatically at age 48 when a bout of shingles triggered a cascade of neurological symptoms. What started as occasional dizziness escalated to severe vestibular challenges that left her bedridden and struggling with cognitive difficulties. Her experience highlights how viral conditions can dramatically impact neurological function, leading to what many describe as a perpetual state of mental cloudiness.
Dr. Jordan provided a critical medical perspective, explaining that brain fog is not a formal medical diagnosis but a collection of symptoms, including forgetfulness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Crucially, she emphasized that brain fog should not be confused with dementia. While both involve cognitive challenges, dementia is progressive and significantly impairs daily functioning, whereas brain fog is typically temporary and can be managed. The podcast revealed multiple potential triggers for brain fog, including:
- Hormonal changes, especially during perimenopause
- Sleep disruptions
- Medication side effects
- Viral conditions like COVID and shingles
- Underlying health conditions such as thyroid issues and prediabetes
For vestibular patients like Ann, brain fog is particularly challenging. When the brain dedicates extensive energy to maintaining balance, cognitive functions like memory and concentration can become significantly impaired. Ann described feeling like she was “in a fishbowl,” struggling with short-term memory and confidence in social interactions. Both offered practical strategies for managing brain fog.
Lifestyle Interventions:
- Prioritize quality sleep
- Maintain a balanced diet
- Engage in regular exercise, particularly strength training
- Practice stress management techniques
- Stay hydrated
- Consider hormone replacement therapy (for appropriate candidates)
Personal Coping Strategies:
- Create memory aids and cheat sheets
- Use timers and organizational tools
- Practice self-compassion
- Join supportive communities
- Maintain a sense of humor
Dr. Jordan highlighted that only 2-4% of women access hormonal solutions, despite 75% experiencing disruptive symptoms like hot flashes. She strongly recommends that individuals seek healthcare providers who listen and provide comprehensive screenings to identify potential underlying causes.
Ann’s approach focused on personal adaptation. She developed strategies, such as creating mental games for challenging tasks, using sensory techniques to stay grounded, and being kind to herself during difficult cognitive moments. Her advice resonated with the importance of finding individual coping mechanisms and maintaining a positive outlook.
The podcast concluded with a message of hope: brain fog, while frustrating, is not a permanent condition. By understanding its triggers, implementing targeted strategies, and seeking appropriate medical guidance, individuals can effectively manage and minimize its impact. For those struggling with brain fog, the key takeaways are clear: be patient with yourself, seek professional medical advice, explore holistic management strategies, and remember that you’re not alone in this experience.
A full transcript is available on YouTube (scroll below the description and click “Show Transcript”).
