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Hormonal Changes and Brain Fog


Published June 21, 2023

Brain fog in middle-aged Americans can be caused by several factors, some of which are specific to this age group. Here are several potential contributors to brain fog in middle-aged individuals:

Middle age is often associated with hormonal shifts, such as perimenopause or andropause in women and men, respectively. Hormonal imbalances can affect cognitive function and contribute to brain fog.

Hormonal changes can play a significant role in brain fog experienced by middle-aged Americans. During middle age, both men and women undergo hormonal shifts that can impact cognitive function. Here’s a closer look at the hormonal changes and their influence on brain fog:

Perimenopause and menopause (Women): Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, during which hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, fluctuate. These hormonal fluctuations can contribute to cognitive symptoms, including brain fog, memory lapses, and difficulty concentrating. The decline in estrogen levels, in particular, is thought to be associated with mental changes during this stage.

Click Here to Learn More About Menopause

Andropause (Men): Andropause refers to the gradual decline in testosterone levels in middle-aged men. Low testosterone levels can impact cognitive function, leading to symptoms such as brain fog, decreased mental clarity, and difficulties with memory and concentration. 

In cases where hormonal changes, such as menopause or andropause, contribute to brain fog, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional. HRT can help balance hormone levels and alleviate cognitive symptoms.

Click Here to Learn More About Andropause

Thyroid hormone imbalances: Thyroid hormones, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), regulate metabolism and brain function. In middle age, some individuals may experience thyroid hormone imbalances, such as hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) or hyperthyroidism (excessive thyroid function), leading to cognitive changes and brain fog. If brain fog is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, managing that condition effectively can lead to improvement. For instance, treating thyroid disorders, managing diabetes, or addressing autoimmune diseases may help alleviate brain fog.

Hormones have complex interactions with the brain and can influence neurotransmitter activity, neuroplasticity, and blood flow to the brain. Estrogen, for instance, has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, promoting brain health and cognition. Therefore, fluctuations or declines in estrogen and other hormones during middle age can disrupt these processes and contribute to brain fog.

It’s important to note that the extent to which hormonal changes contribute to brain fog can vary among individuals. For example, some people may experience minimal cognitive effects, while others may have more pronounced symptoms. Other factors, such as sleep disturbances, stress, or lifestyle habits, can also interact with hormonal changes and exacerbate brain fog.

Please note that supplements or dietary changes to address nutritional deficiencies may be recommended after consultation with a healthcare professional.

If you’re experiencing significant brain fog or other cognitive symptoms associated with hormonal changes, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional from BodyLogicMD. The medical professionals from our local offices can evaluate your symptoms, assess hormone levels if necessary, and recommend appropriate management options, which may include hormone therapy or other interventions to alleviate brain fog.

The post Hormonal Changes and Brain Fog appeared first on BodyLogicMD.

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  • “Dr. Schultz is extremely thorough with diagnosis and treatment while her testing is extensive.   She has a wealth of knowledge about hormone replacement and areas relating to this.  Her bedside manner is refreshing and she never rushes you out of her office.   If you have ever considered looking into hormone replacement you would be well advised to start with Dr. Schultz first”

    – Susan R.

  • “Within one week of starting HRT it felt like a thick, heavy fog was lifted from my life. I was able to get a full, restful night of sleep. With the addition of testosterone pellets my energy level, zest for life and libido went from good to fantastic!!! I feel balanced , grounded and very happy most days!”

    -Toula K.

  • “Since I became a patient of Dr. Schultz and FINALLY found someone who could balance my hormones, I HAVE FELT BETTER THAN I DID WHEN I WAS 20!!! I swear this is true!! Because of her diagnostic genius, the level of bioidentical hormones she has fine-tuned to my individual needs have changed my life and restored me to be the best “me” I can be! Dr. Schultz is not just a doctor, I call her my HEALER 🙂 She LISTENS to me, she educates me and encourages me to take good care of myself and to make good choices, and then she allows me to make my own decisions and choices, because she respects that I am an intelligent adult and the expert on my own 58-year-old body. She treats me as a peer and her PARTNER in maintaining my own wellness, and she respects and cares about me! Our appointments start and end with a hug, and I leave her office feeling uplifted, understood, inspired, strengthened and healed in body mind and spirit. She is very holistic,  understanding that we are not just a cluster of symptoms, but that in order to have healthy bodies we must also address our issues, belief systems, and thoughts. Dr. Schultz is a wise and wonderful teacher and I am blessed to have her on my path:) And her staff is awesome too!”

    Jessica O.

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