In brief
A term used to describe problems with thinking and memory. Sleep, stress, activity, diet, medicines and some health conditions can all play a part.
- Talk to your doctor if brain fog is frequent, interferes with your daily life or is getting worse.
- Not getting enough sleep is one of the causes healthdirect lists.
- A drooping face, an arm that cannot be lifted, or slurred speech can be signs of stroke. Call triple zero (000) straight away.
When to get help
Get help now
- Signs of stroke need triple zero (000) straight away: a drooping face, an arm that cannot be lifted, or slurred or confused speech.
See your doctor if
- Your brain fog is frequent.
- It is interfering with your work or daily activities.
- It is getting worse.
Things that can contribute
- Not getting enough sleep
- Not exercising enough
- A diet lacking nutrients
- Stress
- Menopause
- Certain medicines
Questions you could ask your GP
- Could a blood test check for anaemia, thyroid problems or diabetes?
- Could my medicines be affecting my thinking?
- Could poor sleep, stress or low mood explain this?
Based on healthdirect Australia, Brain fog. You can also check your symptoms with the healthdirect Symptom Checker, or speak with a registered nurse on 1800 022 222.
How it works
healthdirect lists causes including not getting enough sleep, stress, menopause, not exercising enough, a diet lacking nutrients and certain medicines.
Health conditions that can cause brain fog include chronic pain, depression, anxiety, diabetes, anaemia, cancer and insomnia. Long COVID and cancer may cause brain fog through inflammation in the body.
Connections
6 connections on the map. Select a topic to read its page.
Brain fog can be caused by
Not getting enough sleep can cause brain fog, according to healthdirect.
Anxiety is one of the conditions that can cause brain fog, according to healthdirect.
Depression and anxiety are among the conditions that can cause brain fog, according to healthdirect.
Anaemia is one of the conditions that can cause brain fog, according to healthdirect.
Brain fog is linked with
- Vitamin B12 Supported
A shortage of vitamin B12 can cause confusion and poor memory.
Sources: NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, Vitamin B12 fact sheet for consumers; Pathology Tests Explained, Vitamin B12 and folate
Brain fog can be eased by
Not exercising enough is one cause of brain fog.
Sources
Each connection above names its own source. See every source AskBioMap uses.
Causes and advice summarised from healthdirect and the Stroke Foundation. Sources read on 12 and 13 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.