One of the country's leading menopause experts has revealed the most commonly overlooked symptom of menopause, which can sometimes be mistaken for early-onset dementia.
Consultant Asha Kasliwal, who works for Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and runs her own self-referral menopause clinic, said most people will be aware of the common signs of the menopause including irregular periods, hot flushes, difficulty sleeping and mood swings.
But fewer people are aware of "brain fog", a catch-all term for confusion, forgetfulness, and other symptoms affecting one's thinking abilities.
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Dr Kasliwal said she has seen patients in her clinics that are terrified that the symptom might be dementia or a sign of a serious illness - but in most cases it's temporary.
Brain fog is more commonly seen in people during the perimenopausal period - which is the transitional time around menopause - because of fluctuating hormones. Perimenopause and menopause usually affect women between the ages of 45 and 55. But can happen earlier, and last until around the age of 65.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News Dr Kasliwal said: "It's quite common and becoming more common as people recognise what brain fog is. In the past people didn't know that it could be part of the menopause.
"The kind of things patients tell you is that they have difficulty remembering words or numbers, that they are missing appointments, and they are forgetting events like birthdays.
"Women are quite used to multitasking and they find they are not able to multitask anymore or find it difficult to switch between different tasks. They have trouble focusing or concentrating on what’s happening. Simple things like not being able to find your car key."
Dr Kasliwal warns that treating brain fog isn't always simple, as it cannot always be treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), unlike other symptoms of menopause.
She added: "One of the most important things to understand is that HRT is not the magic wand to treat brain fog.
"It can help to an extent because it helps improve other symptoms. We know if people can sleep well and are less stressed then they feel better so it can help indirectly.
"What is really important is having a healthy brain, so your physical health is vital. Having a Mediterranean diet is ideal and you need to try and include lots of oily fish, a lot of fresh fruit and veg and try to reduce your sugar intake.
"We know that people who sleep and manage to get a deep sleep have less of an issue with brain fog. This is where HRT might be helpful, not directly with brain fog itself, but if it helps you sleep better.
"Social engagement is really good and can boost your brain health. Managing stress levels is good for starters and anything which helps to reduce stress for you, is good. Coping mechanisms like writing lists and time management, might make you feel better.
"You also need to build in time to relax, where you could try yoga or meditation. Use technology where you can for tasks like note taking, or simple reminders on your phone, if you’re becoming a bit forgetful."
She said it is also important for people to be aware that the symptoms of brain fog do not necessarily lead to dementia - which some people are fearful of.
She said: "Just being open is really important because it will increase awareness in the workplace, at home, and among your friends. It gives other people permission to discuss it as well.
"I'd advising looking at reputable websites as well because information is powerful. Websites such as Women's Health Concern and Menopause Matters are really helpful."
While more research needs to be done around brain fog, Dr Kasliwal wants to reassure people experiencing brain fog that it is unlikely to be long-term.
She added: "Some women are worried that they’re going to suffer with brain fog long term, or that it might lead to them suffering dementia, or another brain illness. But there’s no evidence of that at all."
For more information about menopause visit: www.nhs.uk, themenopausecharity.org, thebms.org.uk and menopausematters.co.uk.
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