Symptom 9. Cognitive Issues: The Brain Fog
Cognitive impairment or “brain fog” is one of the more debilitating symptoms associated with Hashimoto’s disease. It manifests as trouble focusing, memory lapses, or a general sense of mental slowness. For many, this may initially appear as forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating, but as the disease progresses, it can lead to more noticeable cognitive issues.
The exact cause of these cognitive symptoms is not entirely understood, but it’s likely due to a combination of factors. One key factor is the overall reduction in metabolic rate caused by decreased thyroid hormone levels.
The brain is a highly active organ that requires a steady supply of energy to function properly. When this energy supply is reduced, cognitive processes can be impacted.
Moreover, thyroid hormones are directly involved in maintaining the health of brain cells and promoting the production of various neurotransmitters, the chemicals that brain cells use to communicate. Thus, the reduction of thyroid hormone levels in Hashimoto’s disease can disrupt these processes, contributing to the cognitive symptoms. (9)
