How to Improve Fibro Fog from Fibromyalgia

Brain fog is a symptom of fibromyalgia

Fibro fog (or brain fog) is a term used to describe the cognitive function impairments experienced by fibromyalgia sufferers. These can include short-term memory loss, poor concentration, and impaired thinking. Language problems can also be attributed to fibro fog, such as difficulty recalling and speaking common words. It can be a frustrating and frightening symptom of fibromyalgia, however if you are willing to be somewhat proactive, there are some steps you can take to help alleviate this condition.

Things You'll Need

• Calendar or journal
• Deck of cards or board games

Instructions

1. Get plenty of sleep. This may be difficult for some since pain, discomfort and the nature of fibromyalgia itself can cause disruptive and/or non-restorative sleep. To achieve the maximum amount of sleep, you should always go to bed at the same time each night and avoid over-stimulating the brain prior to sleeping.

2. Exercise. This gives you more energy which in turn can help ease fibro fog. No need to go out and run a marathon or invest in a gym membership. If walking, stretching or lifting a gallon of milk out of the refrigerator is all you can manage, then do it.

3. 

   Keep your mind active. Read, write, or do puzzles. Anything that requires analytical thinking will help to improve your mental clarity and memory. If you have young children or grandchildren, play Go Fish or a memory card game with them. For older kids, teach them how to play Hearts or Spades. Card games are a great way to improve your memory and cognitive thinking. Chess and Checkers are alternative options.

4. Write things down. Get in the habit of using a calendar or journal to keep track of important things like appointments and medicine schedules. Journaling is also a great way to reduce stress which can be a contributor to brain fog and is thought to play a role in aggravating other fibromyalgia symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Some of these symptoms may actually be side effects from medications you may be taking...another reason it is so important to discuss them with your doctor.

• This is not a substitute for a doctor's advice. It is important to share any symptoms of fibromyalgia with your doctor.

• Always consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise regime.

• Never drive when experiencing fibro fog. This could be dangerous to you as well as others.

Resources

• National Fibromyalgia Association
• Fibromyalgia Network
• Work at Home Site for Fibromyalgia Sufferers