7 easy ways to boost your memory

Feel like you're walking through treacle and not firing on all cylinders? Here's what can help

We all have days when we struggle to find words, call people by the wrong name, or just feel slower than usual. But W what happens when it's more often than not? Many patients come into my surgery complaining of 'brain fog'. It isn't a medical term but can encompass difficulties with memory and concentration, as well as problems with thinking or feeling confused. Sound familiar? Here's what you should do.

1 GET CHECKED OUT

There are lots of causes of brain fog, which can include hypothyroidism (low levels of thyroid hormone) or anemia, long COVID, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome. If a treatable cause is found, then a management plan can be made. Medications can also cause similar symptoms, so may need to be reviewed.

2 THINK ABOUT YOUR HORMONES

Perimenopause and menopause can lead to brain fog. This may be improved by treatments, which include hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

3 SLEEP!

Sounds simple, but it isn't always easy to get enough sleep. Make sure your bedroom is neither too hot nor too cold, exercise preferably earlier in the day and develop a bedtime routine. Don't have screens or phones in the bedroom or in the hour before bed. Go to bed and wake up at about the same time each day. And, if you can't sleep, get up and read in another room if you can until you feel tired.

4 LOOK AT YOUR DIET