Your Brain: Could an Undiagnosed Medical Problem Be to Blame?

Health Tips / Your Brain: Could an Undiagnosed Medical Problem Be to Blame?

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We’ve been talking about the causes of brain fog, forgetfulness, and lack of focus these past weeks. My final suggestion isn’t likely, but it’s worth including.

An undiagnosed medical problem, such as high blood pressure or kidney or liver disease, could compromise your ability to think clearly.

Virtually all chronic illnesses include diminishment of memory to some degree. People with severe heart disease, kidney failure, autoimmune disorders, emphysema, and cancer (especially during chemotherapy) are all aware that they’re not thinking as clearly as they once were.

Most people with fibromyalgia also report significant problems with thinking (often called “fibro-fog”).

If you haven’t had a check-up in the last couple of years, seeing your doctor is a good idea. Have a full physical examination and the laboratory tests that generally accompany it. These include complete blood count; metabolic profile (checks for diabetes, kidney, and liver problems), cholesterol profile, and thyroid profile.

If everything’s just fine, you needn’t see your doctor again for 3-5 years, except for routine checks, like Pap smears and mammograms.

Next: Brain-boosting supplements and smart drugs.