Brain Fog Treatment

Speak to an AHPRA-accredited online doctor regarding brain fog within minutes from anywhere in Australia, 24/7.

This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About brain fog

Brain fog is a common but frustrating experience that affects your ability to think clearly, focus, and remember things. It’s not a medical condition on its own but rather a symptom that can be linked to various health issues or lifestyle factors. Many people describe brain fog as feeling mentally “cloudy” or “fuzzy,” like you’re not fully present or sharp. Common causes of brain fog include stress, poor sleep, hormonal changes, poor diet, dehydration, long COVID, and vitamin deficiencies. It can also be linked to conditions like anxiety, depression, thyroid disorders, or chronic fatigue syndrome. If you find that brain fog is affecting your daily functioning or lasting longer than a few days, it’s a good idea to speak with a doctor.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

You should consult a doctor for brain fog if:

  • It persists for several days or weeks without improvement.
  • It begins to interfere with your daily activities, memory, focus, or work.
  • It’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms like severe headaches, dizziness, vision changes, or mood shifts.
  • You’ve recently had COVID-19, a viral infection, or a head injury.
  • You suspect it might be linked to medication side effects, hormonal changes, or an underlying health condition like thyroid issues or depression.
Brain fog isn’t a medical condition itself, but a term people use to describe a sluggish, confused, or unfocused state of mind. It can feel like:
  • Mental cloudiness or heaviness in your head
  • Trouble focusing or concentrating on tasks
  • Forgetfulness like struggling to recall names, appointments, or why you walked into a room
  • Slowed thinking or difficulty processing information
  • Feeling mentally exhausted even after a full night’s sleep
  • Disconnection like you’re mentally “on autopilot” or not fully present

Brain fog has many possible causes, often linked to lifestyle, health conditions, or medications. Here are the common causes of brain fog:

  • Lack of sleep: Poor sleep quality or not enough rest can slow your thinking and concentration.
  • Chronic stress or anxiety: High stress hormones disrupt memory and focus.
  • Poor diet: Deficiencies in B vitamins, iron, omega-3s, or dehydration can affect brain function.
  • Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menopause, thyroid issues, or hormonal imbalances can trigger mental fog.
  • Post-viral effects: After illnesses like COVID-19 or flu, many people report lingering cognitive sluggishness.
  • Certain medications: Antihistamines, sedatives, and some painkillers may cloud mental clarity.
  • Medical conditions: Depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, anaemia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or autoimmune disorders.
  • Alcohol and substance use: Can impair memory and focus.
  • Screen time overload: Excessive digital exposure can exhaust mental bandwidth.

The common symptoms of brain fog include:

  • Difficulty concentrating or staying focused on tasks
  • Forgetfulness: Misplacing things, missing appointments, or struggling to recall words
  • Mental fatigue: Feeling mentally drained even after light activities
  • Confusion or disorientation: Struggling to process information clearly
  • Slow thinking: Taking longer than usual to make decisions or complete tasks
  • Feeling spaced out or detached from your surroundings
  • Poor memory: Particularly short-term memory lapses
  • Difficulty finding the right words or following conversations
  • Irritability or frustration linked to cognitive sluggishness

Clearing brain fog starts by identifying and addressing its root cause. Prioritising good sleep hygiene is essential. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night. Stay hydrated, as even mild dehydration can impair focus and memory.

A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, berries, nuts, and whole grains supports brain health. Reducing processed foods, alcohol, and excess caffeine can also improve mental clarity. Incorporating daily exercise even a brisk walk boosts blood flow to the brain and improves mood and concentration.

Managing stress through mindfulness practices like meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga is helpful. If brain fog persists despite these lifestyle adjustments, consult a GP via telehealth or in person.

Boosting memory and sharpening thinking skills is totally doable with some consistent habits. Here are some practical, evidence-based tips:

  • Get quality sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours nightly. Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and cognitive function.
  • Stay physically active: Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain and supports mental sharpness.
  • Eat brain-friendly foods: Include omega-3-rich fish, berries, leafy greens, nuts, whole grains, and plenty of water.
  • Challenge your mind: Puzzles, reading, learning new skills or languages, and memory games help keep your brain agile.
  • Practise mindfulness or meditation: It reduces stress and improves focus and working memory.
  • Stay socially connected: Engaging conversations and social activities boost mental resilience.
  • Manage stress well: Chronic stress impairs memory; use relaxation techniques or hobbies you enjoy.
  • Limit alcohol and avoid smoking: Both negatively impact cognitive health over time.

Several vitamin deficiencies can contribute to brain fog. The most common ones include:

  • Vitamin B12: A deficiency can cause memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue.
  • Vitamin D: Low levels are linked to mood issues, mental sluggishness, and poor cognitive performance.
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Important for nerve function; deficiency can lead to confusion and poor memory.
  • Folate (Vitamin B9): Essential for brain function and emotional health and low levels can cause mental fatigue and fogginess.
  • Iron: While technically a mineral, iron deficiency affects oxygen delivery to the brain, causing tiredness and cognitive clouding.

Getting an online doctor consult is simple via Hola Health. Just choose a consultation type, fill in your details and make payment. Speak with an online doctor within 15 minutes and seek medical advice for brain fog within minutes.

Brain fog isn’t just feeling a little scattered. It can affect memory, concentration, and your ability to make decisions, often leaving you anxious, frustrated, or emotionally drained. Many people with brain fog also experience dips in their mood and motivation, which can impact daily life and mental well-being
If you need to see a specialist for further tests, hormone checks, or mental health support, Hola Health doctors can provide referrals online too. These are sent to your email securely after your consultation.
Absolutely. All Hola Health doctors are AHPRA-registered, qualified Australian GPs. The difference is you see them on your terms, from home, work, or wherever you are.

Yes, Hola Health offers 24/7 telehealth services, including after-hours and weekend appointments. Whether it’s a restless night or a busy Sunday, you can book and speak to a doctor when it works for you.

Getting the support you need is easier than ever. Here’s how you can access a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) through Hola Health in a few simple steps:

  • Choose your appointment type & fill in your details: Visit Hola Health, select a ‘Mental Health Care Plan’ appointment, and complete a quick form with your details.
  • Add your Medicare and payment details: If you have a valid Medicare card, your consultation may be 100% bulk billed. Add your Medicare info and confirm your payment details if needed.
  • Book your preferred appointment time: Pick a convenient time from the available slots to chat with an AHPRA-registered online doctor.
  • Speak to a doctor & get your plan: During your call, discuss how you’ve been feeling. If eligible, the doctor will create a personalised Mental Health Treatment Plan.
  • Receive your Mental Health Care Plan via email: If approved, your plan will be sent straight to your inbox.

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