The first few times you experience cognitive memory loss due to Fibromyalgia Brain Fog, it’s downright scary. After you research Fibro Fog and discover it’s just one more life-interrupter instigated by Fibromyalgia, you may decide to view it with good humor. After all who else do you know that throws dirty clothes in the garbage and eats out on holidays because of the turkey’s refusal to cook in a cold oven?

In no way do I seek to undermine the significance of clouds that cover our memory, but as our Native American friends say – “Laughter makes good medicine”. After having grappled with Fibromyalgia, its associated conditions and chronic pain for over 30 years, I’ve earned the right to poke a little fun.

After all, it’s not Alzheimer’s or Dementia. And, I’ve learned that this too passes. In all seriousness, some of Fibro Fog’s consequences aren’t funny. For a writer, it’s annoying when words slip beyond our peripheral. Running a red light because of a cloudy brain is life threatening. Misplacing vital necessaries, forgetting your husband’s name, stopping in mid-sentence because we can’t recall the subject, may be frustrating, if you aren’t aware of Fibro Fog’s ramifications.

If you haven’t experienced Fibromyalgia Brain Fog, here are the suspected causes and tips to adjust.

What Causes Fibro Fog?

Like many facets of this “mystery disease”, the exact causes are unknown. However, medical professionals suspect sleep deprivation is the leading cause. It is highly substantiated that Fibro sufferers experience frequent sleep interruptions and, consequentially, lack serotonin. Without enough serotonin stores, our memory recall becomes significantly impaired.

Due to chronic pain, individuals with Fibromyalgia are frequently depressed. Depression also serves to lower serotonin levels.

The vicious cycle goes on as chronic pain can cause sleep deprivation. Chronic pain, depression and stress contribute to our loss of clarity.

What are Symptoms of Fibromyalgia Brain Fog?

Memory loss, misplacing things and/or words, inability to focus, lack of clarity and learning new skills are the common symptoms of Fibromyalgia Brain Fog.

Making Adjustments to Compensate for Brain Fog

Over the years I’ve become an expert at adjusting my life to compensate for Brain Fog. You may borrow any or all that work for you.

• Live a more disciplined life. Spontaneity and Fibro Fog do not mix well. Don’t dash out of the house without double checking everything. Do you have what you need for where you are going? Do you have your car keys? Did you turn off lights, oven, etc.?

• Make lists. Make a lot of lists. Put them where they are visible. Often, I attach a sticky note to my front door when I must remember something important or critical.

• Devise memory aids. For example, I must take one medication on an empty stomach, before breakfast. I use the same glass every day and there are no duplicates of it. When I can’t remember whether or not I took the med, I look in the dishwasher to ensure the glass is there.

• Never look at the big picture. When you have a big task, break it into small pieces and do one piece at a time.

• Get rid of distractions. Loud music, people talking at the same time, fluorescent lighting, all create confusion.

• Know your circadian clock. Pay bills, grocery shop, and do other tasks that require a high level of concentration when your energy level is highest.

• Tell people. Most people are empathetic when they know about your condition. Don’t apologize or over-explain, just make them aware of your limitations.

Bottom Line

Cognitive memory loss from Fibromyalgia Brain Fog is frustrating and you may experience irritability, fear and agitation. Laugh about it when you can; cry if you must.

Most importantly, look until you find a caring doctor who will help you manage the symptoms of Fibromyalgia and Fibro Fog.