Fuzzy Brain

Information compiled by PBCer Kay in Austin, AIH, AIC

As I think someone already reported, we learned at the PBC convention that true fuzzy brain/brain fog (encephalopathy) due to liver disease only occurs with cirrhosis. Hopefully most of us don't have that excuse. Here are my excuses (quotes are taken from articles on the internet):

(1) prednisone - "The risk of memory impairment from prednisone is considerable, say researchers at Wayne State University in Detroit in the December 1996 issue of Neurology."

(2) hypothyroidism - "During research regarding thyroid conditions, I discovered several references to "slowed thinking" as a symptom of Hashimoto's thyroid disease (a form of hypothyroidism, also called underactivethroid).

If you think you suffer from slowed thinking, it may be worthwhile to insist on a re-evaluation of thyroid levels."

(3) My age - "It is a little discouraging, but it does appear that as you age your memory does decrease."

"Age-Associate Memory Impairment (AAMI) refers to a normal decline in memory due to aging. Some decline in memory is normal as we age. This often takes the form of "memory lapses" (e.g., forgetting where you left your glasses). Individuals with AAMI may show this kind of memory decline, but it is within the limits of what is considered "normal" for their age group. In the 1980s, a group of scientists and physicians at the National Institutes of Health developed a set of standards for diagnosing AAMI. A patient may be considered to have AAMI if he or she is at least 50 years old..."

(4) Perimenopause - Memory Changes: "You may feel like you are forgetting things more easily. Sometimes this is referred to as "brain fog". It may be due to lack of sleep and/or the fact that since there are hundreds of estrogen receptors on the brain and the decreased estrogen levels effects brain function, including memory."

"Fuzzy thinking is probably the most disturbing symptom of perimenopause. It's known to be transient, but it can be a real impediment to your efficiency. We can't be excused from work or other responsibilities until it clears up. Inability to concentrate or remember things has been attributed to lack of estrogen."