ICU Podcast: Brain Fog

In today’s episode of the ICU Podcast, we’re going to talk about brain fog. It kind of sounds like some sort of weather pattern. What is brain fog, and why do so many vestibular patients experience it? Some people describe it as forgetfulness, confusion, a lack of focus, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, or just a vague sense of blurry thinking, like your head is in the clouds. When the brain is dedicating a great deal of energy to maintaining equilibrium and staying steady, activities such as recalling details or short-term memory may become more difficult, and thinking might seem slow. First, I want you to know that this is NORMAL. Today we’ll talk to a patient who knows about brain fog all too well, and a doctor who has helped thousands of women learn to manage this frustrating symptom.

Dr. Kathleen Jordan is the Chief Medical Officer at Midi, a virtual care clinic for women going through menopause and perimenopause. She has personally experienced the struggle to find a healthcare provider she can consider a partner in her journey toward wellness. She created Midi to put high-quality, patient-centered care within reach for all women at midlife. As an expert in women’s health, Dr. Jordan is very familiar with brain fog, otherwise known as “menopause brain”, and has some great suggestions for how to recognize and manage it.

Ann Walder has struggled with migraines all her life. The word Vestibular Migraine entered her vocabulary after an illness that damaged her inner ears when she was 48. Early on Ann says her brain fog was fierce. She was blessed to connect with the vestibular community and find qualified healthcare providers early in her journey. Her family has been very supportive, and she’s found many friends among VeDA’s Ambassadors. She currently works as an activity specialist with the elderly and says that helping others brings her true happiness.