Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by chronic widespread pain. Individuals suffering from fibromyalgia usually hurt from the tops of their heads to the bottoms of their feet.
Additionally, individuals suffering from fibromyalgia tend to suffer some cognitive dysfunction. This is referred to as “fibro fog.”
Fibro fog is considered one of the most debilitating and prevalent symptoms that are faced by those suffering from fibromyalgia. Often, this is the one that makes it the hardest for them to keep working and can also bring with it significant embarrassment and frustration.
“Fibro fog” makes people worry that maybe they’re developing Alzheimer’s disease. However, research shows that this is not the case at all. It is true though, that the same information used to build and maintain cognitive functioning in Alzheimer’s patients can be used in those dealing with “fibro fog” as well.
Taking the time to learn more about “fibro fog” could actually help individuals suffering with fibromyalgia find ways that they can treat, manage, and live with this symptom.
What Causes “Fibro Fog”?
As of right now, it is unclear what exactly causes the cognitive dysfunction in conditions such as fibromyalgia. However, there are lots of theories about possible factors that contribute to it, including the following:
- Not getting enough/restful sleep
- Not having enough blood flow to the brain
- Abnormalities in the brain
- Premature aging in the brain
- Mentally distracted because of the pain
Typically, in individuals with fibromyalgia, the “fibro fog” is much worse when the pain is worse. Additionally, it can be increased if you’re dealing with some sensory overload or if you’re feeling rushed or anxious.
Another symptom common with fibromyalgia is depression- which is also associated with cognitive dysfunction. However, some studies have revealed that the severity of the “fibro fog” is not correlated with the symptoms of depression. Then, there are many of the common fibromyalgia medications that can contribute somewhat to “fibro fog.”
Symptoms of “Fibro Fog”
The symptoms of “fibro fog” can range in severity. As with the other symptoms of fibromyalgia, they often vary in intensity from day to day and not everyone will experience them. Symptoms of “fibro fog” include:
- Problems with remembering known words, using incorrect words, and difficulty recalling names
- Unable to remember what is heard or read and general forgetfulness (short-term memory)
- Problems recognizing surroundings that are familiar, becoming lost easily, and having difficult remembering where things are located
- Unable to multi-task, forgetting the original task at hand when something else comes up
- Problems with processing information, distracted very easily
- Problems with performing simple math, difficulty remembering numbers or sequences, and transposing numbers
- Some may have other symptoms of cognitive dysfunction
Living with “Fibro Fog”
Following are some tips to help you live with “fibro fog.” Keep in mind that everyone with fibromyalgia is different. What works for one person may or may not work for the next. It will take some time, patience, and experimentation to figure out what will work best for you as far as coping with the symptoms of cognitive dysfunction related to fibromyalgia.
Living with “Fibro Fog” at Work
When you’re at work and your brain isn’t’ working as well as it normally does- or should- it can be quite difficult. When this cognitive dysfunction strikes, it can make you feel like you are no longer able to perform your job correctly- at times, your boss may even agree. However, there are some things that you can do to help with this.
Of course, again, everyone and every job is different, so you will need to figure out what is going to work for your particular situation. Here are some tips that could help in a variety of different work environments:
- Request written instructions for tasks or write them down yourself
- Write out detailed “to-do” lists
- Keep repeating information to yourself over and over to secure it into your memory
- Figure out a way to organize yourself that keeps you focused and on top of things
Keep in mind that, since you are someone who is suffering with a chronic illness, you may be entitled to receive reasonable accommodations at work. Check out the Americans with Disabilities Act and Reasonable Accommodations associated with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Living with “Fibro Fog” While You’re Out and About
For many, the most stressful episodes of cognitive dysfunction will appear when you’re away from your normal work or home environments. A great way to deal with this is to do the following:
- Before you leave, tell someone where you’re going
- Write down where you’re planning to go and why you’re going there
- Keep a map of places you frequent in your vehicle
- Always keep calm, even when you do feel like you’re lost or can’t remember where you were going
Keeping calm is extremely important. When you get panicky or anxious, it only makes the situation worse. Try to get to a place where you can quietly sit and gather your thoughts such: your vehicle, a bathroom stall, or a dressing room.
Living with “Fibro Fog” at Home
Every now and then, everyone forgets where they lay their keys or wallet- or even cell phones- down. However, for those suffering with cognitive dysfunction, it can be a constant battle to remember where things are. Some things you can do to help with this are as follows:
- Always put things in the same place
- Clip your keys to your purse or on a peg board by the door
- Keep a notepad near the phone so that you can write things down
- Come up with a system of organization that will help you the most
Remember that you’re not the only one who is struggling with this. There are others out there just like you who struggle with “fibro fog.” Join a fibromyalgia support group in your area if there is one. If there is not, consider starting one yourself.
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