Cognitive dysfunction (or brain fog) is defined as unusually poor mental function, associated with confusion, forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating.¹² A number of medical or psychiatric conditions and treatments can cause such symptoms, including Heavy metal poisoning (in particular mercury poisoning),³ menopause² and sleep disorders (including disrupted sleep).² The term brain fog is not commonly used to describe people with dementia or other conditions that are known to cause confusion and memory problems,^{citation needed} but it can be used as a synonym for sleep inertia or grogginess upon being awakened from deep sleep.

Treatments

Treatment generally involves correcting any underlying medical conditions. For example, if the patient is found to be suffering a form of thyroidism, the mental declining effects associated with thyroidism can be corrected with thyroid hormone replacement therapy.^{citation needed} Additionally, occupational therapy may be helpful for some people. Neurofeedback can improve symptoms for some people.⁴⁵⁶

See also

• ADHD predominantly inattentive
• Brain fag
• Depersonalization disorder
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Sluggish cognitive tempo

References

1. ^ "Treating Cognitive Dysfunction ("Brain Fog") in CFS & Fibromyalgia".
2. ^ ^{a b c} Saether, Linda (18 April 2008). “A journey of brain fogs and hot flashes”, CNN. Retrieved on 3 January 2009. 
3. ^ Frackelton JP, Christensen, RL (1998). "Mercury Poisoning and Its Potential Impact on Hormone Regulation and Aging: Preliminary Clinical Observations Using a New Therapeutic Approach". Journal of Advancement in Medicine 11 (1): 9-25. doi:10.1023/A:1023373303542. 
4. ^ Thatcher RW (January 2000). "EEG operant conditioning (biofeedback) and traumatic brain injury". Clin Electroencephalogr 31 (1): 38–44. PMID 10638351. 
5. ^ Thornton K (December 2000). "Improvement/rehabilitation of memory functioning with neurotherapy/QEEG biofeedback". J Head Trauma Rehabil 15 (6): 1285–96. PMID 11056409. http://meta.wkhealth.com/pt/pt-core/template-journal/lwwgateway/media/landingpage.htm?issn=0885-9701&volume=15&issue=6&spage=1285. 
6. ^ http://www.isnr.org/uploads/(1-1)4.pdf

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