Problems in thinking or concentration. Different from the ADHD symptoms we experience, where we think of too many things and have a hard time keeping our thoughts on just one. Brain fog occurs when you feel as though time has lapsed and you have not been able to think about anything (like your brain is foggy). Brain fog can be caused by traumatic brain injuries (TBI), including Chiari Malformations, but there are other causes common to us: the influence of anesthesia or many of the medications we take to control our pain/spasms; additionally a diet high in sugar/carbohydrates is known to cause brain fog.
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD]
A chronic brain condition characterized by attention difficulty, hyperactivity (not necessarily in terms of energy levels, but the inability to stop the brain/thoughts from jumping from subject to subject), and impulsiveness. While most doctors require the presentation of symptoms presented in childhood, traumatic brain injury patients (like those of us with Chiari) can develop a Secondary Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (SADHD) or Acquired Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (AADHD) that can be temporary (from certain medications or anesthesia) or permanent (from the damage itself).
Fibromyalgia [FM]
A condition known for widespread musculoskeletal pain; often centralized at “trigger points”. These are spots on the body, often joints, where the pain seems to radiate from. Other symptoms include fatigue, memory and mood issues, sleep disturbances and cognitive difficulties (Fibro fog).
Symptoms sometimes begin after a physical trauma, surgery, infection or significant psychological stress. In other cases, symptoms gradually accumulate over time with no single triggering event.
It has been theorized that the widespread pain and other issues come from a processing issue within the brains pain receptors. There is no known singular test for Fibromyalgia; rather a diagnosis comes from a complete history, symptoms and physical exam. A variety of medications have been found to help ease the symptoms of Fibromyalgia as there is no cure.
