Summary

• Brain fog is a term people often use when they feel they are not thinking clearly.  
• Symptoms can come and go and often improve over time.
• Stroke can trigger problems with memory, fatigue, communication and emotions that can make it hard to think clearly. 
• There are many tips and tricks to help you with brain fog. 
• There are also ways you can support someone who has brain fog.

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What is brain fog?

‘Brain fog’ is not a medical term but can be used to describe a range of symptoms that can make you feel like you’re not thinking clearly. Some people can experience brain fog after a stroke and symptoms may vary and change over time.   

Brain fog is a term that’s widely used when describing issues that affect the way you think. Sometimes people affected by other medical conditions like Covid-19, multiple sclerosis, dementia, depression, anxiety, cancer and cancer treatments also describe brain fog. If you’re going through menopause, you may also experience brain fog.

What does brain fog feel like?

Stroke survivors tell us they have experienced things including:   

• Poor concentration.   
• Feeling confused.   
• Thinking slowly.   
• Fuzzy thoughts.   
• Forgetfulness.   
• Lost words.   
• Mental fatigue.  
• Feeling ‘fuddled’ or ‘cloudy’.

Will my brain fog symptoms get better?

Brain fog can come and go, and you will have good days and bad days. Brain fog symptoms are usually temporary and often get better over time.

Why do I have brain fog?

If you’re experiencing brain fog, seek help from your GP, stroke nurse or pharmacist. They may be able to find out what is causing your problem.  

Effects linked to brain fog

Certain effects of stroke can all be factors in why you may experience what feels like a foggy brain. Below is an outline of the problems and why they may cause you to feel like you have brain fog.  

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What can I do about brain fog?

There are many practical things you can do to help with the effects of stroke if these are causing your brain fog.

Steps you can take to help manage your fatigue

• (Known as the three Ps) pace yourself, plan what you want to do and prioritise activities.
• Build in some time to have a break or rest.
• Try some gentle exercise, as this may help to improve fatigue. Start slowly and build up gradually over time. For inspiration on how to do this, go to our getting active after stroke webpage.
• Keep a diary to track your progress.

Tips to help with memory and thinking problems

• Try writing things down.
• Use prompts.
• Use reminders.
• Keep things in the same place.
• Record messages for yourself on your phone.
• Plan your day.  

Tips for tackling sleep problems

• Try to keep a regular sleep-wake schedule by going to bed and getting up at the same time every day.
• Create a comfortable sleeping environment (dark, comfortable temperature).
• Avoid television or devices (like smartphones) before bed.

Tips and tools to help with communication

• Carry a pen and notebook to write or draw.
• Try communication apps for your smartphone or tablet.
• Use communication cards and books.

Help with emotional changes

• Speak to your GP, stroke nurse or therapist about support available.
• Express your feelings, either by talking to someone or writing things down.
• Take it easy on yourself and tell others if they can help.
• Be as physically active as you can.
• Try relaxation techniques.

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Supporting someone who has brain fog

It can be difficult to know how to help someone with brain fog after a stroke, but there are many ways you can support them day-to-day.

• Talk to them and try to understand their symptoms.
• Remove distractions like music or the TV when talking to them if they find concentrating on conversations hard.
• Speak clearly and slowly, and try to use short sentences and simple language. Be patient as you may need to repeat yourself. We have more tips for helping someone with communication problems.
• Give information in manageable bite-sized chunks. It can be helpful to use sticky notes to write down important information and remind them of things you’ve said or asked them to do. You can send text or WhatsApp reminders or use smart devices to set reminders.
• Give them time and space to respond or complete tasks. People with brain fog may get frustrated. Being reassuring and understanding when they are struggling is really important.
• Help them stay active. This can be particularly helpful for boosting their mood or managing their fatigue. Exercising together is a great way to do this. Have a look at our other tips for supporting someone experiencing emotional changes.