Have you noticed that your mental sharpness and memory have diminished since you caught the coronavirus? This is a very common complaint among COVID patients of all ages. In this article, we’ll discuss what Long COVID is and how to cure brain fog from COVID infection.
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What is COVID Brain Fog?
Before we go into how to cure brain fog from COVID, let’s look at the connection between these two.
A symptom that is commonly reported among long COVID-19 survivors is brain fog, with some studies suggesting that 80% of patients have continued problems with memory.
Some describe the feeling as if an impassable fog has blocked access to their thoughts and memories. It affects their ability to perform certain tasks, such as remembering things, navigating, and solving problems.
When these vital functions of the brain are impaired, it’s difficult to understand, concentrate, and remember things. Essentially, when the brain is foggy, it’s harder for it to do its job.
We’ve all had that experience of waking up with our brains feeling like they’re in a fog. Sometimes it’s from jet lag, other times it could just be from taking a sleeping pill. Whatever the case, it usually takes a few hours for the brain to return to normal.
But for many COVID long-haulers, this fog is more serious and permanent. Common complaints include memory loss, difficulty in remembering things, trouble finding words and feeling overwhelmed by even the smallest tasks.
These patients have all shown signs of cognitive decline, but they didn’t actually have any underlying conditions like a stroke or seizure that could explain their symptoms.
How COVID Causes Brain Fog
There are many possible causes of brain fog from COVID, but the most likely cause is an imbalance in the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome is a collection of trillions of microbes that live in the digestive tract and play a critical role in gut health.
An imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to inflammation and gut dysbiosis, which can in turn cause brain fog.
There are several natural remedies that can help cure brain fog from COVID.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help restore gut-bacterial balance. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Adding more fermented foods to your diet such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, can also help increase the number of healthy gut bacteria.
Exercise has also been shown to be beneficial for gut health.
A healthy diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables can also help keep the gut microbiome balanced.
Reducing stress levels can also help reduce inflammation and promote gut health.
How to Cure Brain Fog from COVID
Do you ever feel like you can’t focus?
Or like your brain is in a fog?
If you’re struggling with brain fog from long COVID-19, you’re not alone. Many people who have had COVID-19 report difficulties with thinking and concentration months after recovering from the virus.
Brain fog can be extremely frustrating and make it hard to carry out everyday tasks. The good news is that there are things you can do to help improve your cognitive function and reduce brain fog.
Here are some tips on how to cure brain fog from COVID.
1. Get Plenty of Rest
Sleep is essential for a healthy mind and body. When you’re sleep-deprived, it’s harder to focus and think clearly.
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Fatigue can contribute to brain fog, so it’s important to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
If you’re having trouble sleeping, there are some things you can do to help you get a better night’s sleep.
Try to avoid caffeine and screens before bed.
Establish a regular sleep schedule and stick to it as much as possible.
And create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down at the end of the day.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a nutritious diet is important for overall health and can also help to improve brain function. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet, and avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine.
Eating foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds can help to improve brain function. Including some brain-boosting supplements in your diet can also be helpful.
3. Exercise Regularly
Exercise has numerous benefits for overall health, including improving brain function. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.
A moderate amount of exercise is the key – too much or too little can actually have the opposite effect.
If you’re not used to exercising, start slow and gradually increase your activity level. A brisk walk is a great place to start.
4. Take Breaks
When you’re feeling overwhelmed or fatigued, take a break. Go for a walk, take a hot bath, read your favorite book, or just step away from your work for a few minutes. This will help to clear your head, improve your focus, and help your body relax and rejuvenate.
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5. Limit Screen Time
Spending too much time looking at your computer screen can lead to fatigue and eye strain, which can worsen brain fog. If possible, limit your screen time to no more than 2 hours per day.
6. Practice Meditation or Mindfulness
Practicing meditation or mindfulness can help to improve focus and concentration. There are many apps and online resources available to help you get started.
7. Connect with Your Loved Ones
Staying connected with loved ones is important for your mental health. Whether you’re connecting virtually or in person, quality time with those you care about can help reduce stress and improve your mood.
8. See Your Doctor
If you’re struggling with brain fog that is impacting your daily life, it’s important to see your doctor. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions and provide additional treatment options.
If you’re dealing with brain fog, know that you’re not alone. Try these natural remedies to help clear your head and improve your overall mood.
When to See Your Doctor
If you’re experiencing brain fog from COVID, it’s important to consult with a doctor to rule out any other potential causes. Brain fog can be a symptom of other underlying health conditions, so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis.
There are many natural remedies that can help improve brain function and clarity, but it’s important to work with a doctor to find the best treatment plan for you.
Conclusion
If you’re struggling with mental clarity, these home remedies on how to cure brain fog from COVID can help clear your head and improve your mood. Try drinking plenty of fluids, getting regular exercise, and managing stress with relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
If your symptoms persist or get worse, be sure to talk to your doctor for further treatment options.