Brain fog is real, and it is usually temporary

Verbal memory dips measurably during perimenopause and, in most studies, recovers in the years after the final period. Knowing that it is a phase — not early decline — changes how women respond to it.

DOCTOR'S NOTE

The strongest single predictor of daytime cognitive complaints in midlife is not hormone level. It is how badly you slept.

What helps Treating night sweats and insomnia first Aerobic exercise, 150 minutes a week Single-tasking and external memory aids during the worst months Checking thyroid function, ferritin and vitamin B12 Hormone therapy improves cognition indirectly, mostly by restoring sleep. It…

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Brain fog is real, and it is usually temporary

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The weekly midlife letter