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Can Allergies Cause Brain Fog

The Problem With Gluten

Allergies? Brain fog? Try this.

Until recently, it was not understood how ubiquitous problems with gluten have become.

A Mayo Clinic study found that celiac disease goes hand in hand with dementia and other forms of cognitive decline.

Cognitive decline could often be stabilized or even reversed when patients were faithful a gluten-free diet.

Gluten is most commonly associated with wheat, but can also be found in other grains like rye, oats, and barley, prepared foods of all kinds, beer, medications, and nutritional supplements.

Foods Causing Your Brain Fog

Brain fog is a funny term for a not-so-funny feeling. It feels like your thoughts are fuzzy and you just cant focus. You forget things and get confused easily. Its not normal and its not pleasant. Its a sign that something is just not right.

If youve had brain fog once, its no big deal. But if youre having it on a regular basis, you need to figure out why and do something about it.

One of the biggest causes of brain fog is the food that youre eating.

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Amine Intolerance

Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of amine intolerance. I have discovered that the most common presentation for amine intolerance would have to be dull headaches, cant concentrate, irritable bowel syndrome, lethargy, and nasal congestion.

Common Symptoms

Which Foods Are The Highest In Amines?

It is easier to avoid amines in your diet as opposed to salicylates, because the highest amounts of amines can be found in chocolate, aged cheeses, wine and many alcoholic beverages, cured, aged and smoked meats like sausage or salami, canned or smoked fish, fruits like banana, avocado, and tomato.

Remember, the amine content increases as certain fruits ripen or as the meat or fish ages, so if you are sensitive to any of these foods or drinks then my advice for you is to only consume the very freshest of produce, meats and fish.

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What Can You Do To Clear The Fog

Brain fog treatment will often depend on the root cause, but there are some things you can do at home to keep your mind sharp and more alert. These include:

  • Participating in activities that increase alertness, energy and brain power, such as regular exercise and meditation or trying activities like crosswords and Sudoku or working on a puzzle.
  • Getting plenty of sleep.
  • Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats and whole grains.
  • Managing stress by knowing your limitations. For example, completing tasks one at a time, making checklists to ensure that you are remembering to complete all aspects of a task and setting reminders for important upcoming events can help take the pressure off of your brain.

Can Allergies Make You Tired Top Tips For Managing Allergy Fatigue

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If youâre one of the many people who experience allergies, you may have suffered through common symptoms like itchy eyes and skin, nasal congestion, and/or watery eyes. You may have even found yourself feeling tiredâso if youâre wondering if allergies can make you tired, the answer is âyes,â allergies cause fatigue in some cases.

There are many ways that having allergies can impact your energy levels and cause you to feel tired. In fact, thereâs even a name for fatigue caused by allergiesâ”brain fogââwhich can make it difficult to carry out everyday tasks or function at your best.

Looking to learn more about the relationship between allergies and fatigue? Read on or skip to our infographic to understand why your allergies may be making you tired and learn tips for combating sleeplessness.

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Injuries Wisdom Teeth And Trapped Nerves:

It has recently been substantiated that pinched nerves can also cause brain fog. Don’t ignore any aches, or pains as it may be a pinched nerve and may be the cause. This nerve pain also exists behind your wisdom teeth. The pain is causing your brain cells to focus on the pain instead of the task at hand. Ultimately, brain cells, or neurons, dont communicate well with each other to focus on the task at hand. This causes brain function to slow down and diminish, giving you brain fog.

Your Allergy Brain Fog Is Real

But we still arent really sure why

Anyone who has allergies knows how harrowing it can be to even figure out whats causing them, let alone work through a manageable treatment that lets you live without feeling like youre constantly walking underwater. Worse is the associated allergy condition specific to seasonal allergies: That weird, heavy-headed brain fog that makes you feel like youre carrying around a permanent hazy mist in your head. According to The New York Times Well blog, the condition itself is real even though it cant be measured. Though we have some ideas whats going on, we arent really sure why its happening.

Its not something you could demonstrate on a test or scan, Richard Lebowitz, a rhinologist and otolaryngologist at NYU Langone Medical Center, told them. Whats more, there are only theories as to why its happening. The prevailing one, the Times says: Allergies are inflammation, and inflammation elicits an immune response that produces a protein called cytokines, and its the cytokines fighting the infection that produces this effectthe same one you often feel with a cold, too.

This makes it sound almost cool, like allergy brain fog is just your head at war with your sinuses, but of course nothing cool ever felt so shitty that it could be described as seeing the world through cheesecloth. But more to the point: We seem to get the how of what happens when allergies kick in, but why dont we get the why?

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Consider Immunotherapy Allergy Drops

While allergy medications provide short-term relief from symptoms, and often lose their effectiveness if overused, immunotherapy is a more long-term approach to allergy fatigue treatment. Immunotherapy slowly introduces the body to more and more of the allergen it is allergic to so that it builds up a tolerance and no longer reacts as strongly. Allergy shots are an older form of immunotherapy that are very effective, but this treatment has some associated risks and requires frequent office visits. Allergy drops are just as effective but can be done easily from home with daily drops under the tongue, making this one of the best ways to manage and eliminate allergies causing fatigue.

What Causes Brain Fog

How to Reduce Brain Fog with A Gluten Free Diet Treatment Program

If youve ever wandered into a room only to forget why you went in there, youve probably experienced brain fog.

We all feel out of it from time to time, but persistent bouts of brain fog can indicate a more systemic disturbance in your bodys functioning.

Here, well cover 7 common reasons you may be experiencing brain fog, and offer some workable solutions, like herbs for memory, that you can implement into your daily activities to clear the mental haze.

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Why Your Allergies Could Be Making You Tired

In the United States, allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness. Allergens can exist both indoors and outdoors, and it can be a challenge to limit your exposure to them. When it comes to indoor and outdoor allergies, there are a few common culprits that can cause seasonal or recurring allergic reactions such as sinus swelling, nasal congestion or a runny nose, watery eyes, and tiredness. The most common triggers include dust mites, mold, pollen, and pet danderâall of which may cause fatigue.

There are several reasons why fatigue can be linked to allergies. First, exposure to an allergen triggers an immune response thatâs meant to protect you from foreign invaders. Your immune system produces a chemical called histamine, which can cause symptoms like itchiness, swelling, trouble breathing, and fatigue.

Allergy symptoms such as congestion, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and general feelings of discomfort can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep or disrupt your ability to stay asleep, contributing to feelings of fatigue during the day.

Plus, taking medicationsâsuch as antihistaminesâto combat or prevent allergy symptoms may lead to drowsiness during the day, as well.

Find Relief From Fatigue Caused By Allergies

Fatigue can be caused by allergies and this can be frustrating. But it doesnt have to be forever. Diagnosing and treating your underlying allergies is the best way to find relief from your symptoms, get better sleep, and wake up feeling rested. Being tired can negatively impact your quality of life in many ways, but an ENT expert can help you address your issues and get back to a life free from fatigue from allergies. Schedule an appointment to discuss your allergy symptoms with a specialist today.

Recommended Reading: What Does Allergies Do To Your Body

Amines Can Cause Brain Fog

Amines are a type of chemical that occur naturally in many foods. Amines occur due to the breakdown of certain proteins or when they ferment as part of normal ripening or aging of the fresh food. Amines are responsible for giving food its flavor. The amine content will be normally higher in a food with a stronger, more intense flavor, so the more you keep that food, and the longer it ripens, the higher the amine content is likely to be.

The best way to determine whether you have amine intolerance is by way of an elimination and challenge diet. Many patients I have seen over the years have worked out that one key food which can send them into a tailspin, and it could be red wine, chocolate of a soft cheese like Camembert.

How To Treat Fatigue Caused By Allergies

Allergy Congestion: Brain Fog

If allergies are truly the source of your fatigue, treating the allergies is the best way to treat the fatigue. An ENT specialist or allergist can help you determine or confirm the root cause of your issues. After conducting an allergy test in the office or at home to diagnose your allergies, consider which allergy treatment option may work best to treat your fatigue and eliminate other symptoms.

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What Was I Saying Again Six Common Causes For Brain Fog

Darn it! Where did I park my car again?

Wait, what was I saying?

At some point or another, weve all had these thoughts. Whether youre unsure where you parked at the grocery store or youve lost your train of thought during a great story, brain lapses happen to us all. Its called brain fog, or among some parents, mommy brain.”

But why does this happen and is it something to be concerned about?

Natural Seasonal Allergy Relief Strategies

Here are five ways to tackle your seasonal allergies without drugs or medications.

Take these steps to keep your allergies under control this season and prevent attacks in the future.

NEED A MENTAL PERFORMANCE LIFT?

Does this sound like you?

Fuzzy thinking, foggy focus, forgetfulness?

Lack of energy and drive?

Struggle to learn and make decisions?

A quality brain supplement can make a big difference.

Dr. Pat | Be Brain Fit

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Strengthen Your Immune System

Since allergies are fundamentally an immune system problem, you need to strengthen your immune system for long-lasting relief.

You can do that with the right foods and nutrients.

Make good nutrition a part of your lifestyle and youll help prevent allergies and other immune-related conditions for the next allergy season and for years to come.

Follow these nutritional recommendations to strengthen your immune system:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are not only the number one nutrient for your brain, but are also great for helping to prevent allergies.

These highly anti-inflammatory compounds are not reliably found in the modern diet except in cold-water oily fish, so supplementation is almost always beneficial.

HOW’S YOUR MOOD?

Dr. Pat | Be Brain Fit

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is another brain-essential nutrient that has been found to reduce allergy symptoms and even asthma.

Vitamin D deficiency has reached epidemic levels, making supplementation a must for most of us.

Minimize Wheat

Wheat allergies dont manifest only as digestive problems, they contribute to oversensitivity to environmental factors as well.

A wheat allergy can cause conditions that you might not expect like nasal congestion, asthma, sore throat, and itchy eyes.

Wheat contains gluten, a protein that triggers an autoimmune response, thereby causing inflammation.

Dont forget that when you eat wheat, you are eating grass seeds.

Heres a list of the top allergenic foods known as The Big 8:

  • dairy

How To Cure Brain Fog

How Helen Found Relief From IBS, Chronic Fatigue, Allergies & Brain Fog

If youre concerned about recurring brain fog, be sure to consult with your doctor to rule out any more severe underlying conditions. More often than not, the phenomenon can be mitigated by recommitting to your physical and mental health and making strategic adjustments to improve your overall well-being.

If youre looking for remedies for how to get rid of brain fog, consider making the following amendments and lifestyle changes to your routine:

  • Keep a brain fog log Treat yourself to a new Moleskine, pin a note to the top of your Notes app, and get in the habit of recording when and where your brain fog spells happen. Be sure to note details like how much sleep you got, what you ate and drank most recently, and what you were doing when the lapse occurred. Over time, you may notice patterns in the onsets of your episodes, which can help you identify your triggers.
  • Revamp your diet Whether or not food allergens are to blame for your brain fog, minding your diet can do wonders for polishing up your mental performance. Keeping track of food for brain power can help with brain function. Dairy, processed foods, and excessive sugar can bog down your brain. Further, while coffee may give you the impression of mental clarity, too much caffeine can tax your kidneys and stress levels, which can impair your mental functioning in the long term.6

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Mild Allergy Symptoms Typically Include:

  • Runny or congested nose
  • Sneezing
  • Mild rash

More severe allergic reactions are labeled as anaphylaxis and are considered life-threatening. If someone is prone to anaphylaxis, its critical to have an epinephrine pen on hand as symptoms typically occur within the first 20 minutes and can last for 2 hours.

How Its Diagnosed

See your doctor if you have persistent lack of clarity that worsens or doesnt improve. A single test cant diagnose brain fog. Brain fog may signal an underlying issue, so your doctor will conduct a physical examination and ask about your:

  • mental health
  • level of physical activity
  • current medications or supplements

You should let your doctor know about other symptoms you might have. For example, someone with hypothyroidism may have brain fog along with hair loss, dry skin, weight gain, or brittle nails.

Blood work can help your doctor identify the cause of brain fog. A blood test can detect the following:

  • abnormal glucose levels
  • infections
  • inflammatory diseases

Based on the results, your doctor will determine whether to investigate further. Other diagnostic tools may include imaging tests to look inside the body, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. The doctor may also conduct allergy testing or a sleep study to check for a sleep disorder.

Keeping a food journal can help you determine if your diet contributes to brain fog.

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How To Treat It

Brain fog treatment depends on the cause.

For example, if youre anemic, iron supplements may increase your production of red blood cells and reduce your brain fog. If youre diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid or other medication to reduce inflammation or suppress the immune system.

Sometimes, relieving brain fog is a matter of correcting a nutritional deficiency, switching medications, or improving the quality of your sleep.

Home remedies to improve brain fog include:

  • sleeping 8 to 9 hours per night
  • managing stress by knowing your limitations and avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine
  • exercising

Take A Shower Before Bed

Can Brain Fog Be Caused By Allergies?

Taking a shower before bed can help wash pollen or other allergens out of your hair or off your skin, ensuring that you are not bringing allergens into bed with you. Taking a shower or bath before bed may even improve your ability to get a good nightâs sleep by lowering your body temperature, which can help you fall asleep and stay asleep. This should help you feel more rested when you wake up the next morning.

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Refined Carbs And Sugar

While people may initially fall into eating sugar because it helps to stimulate and wake up the brain, long-term and chronic intakes of refined carbs, white flours, refined sugars, and corn syrup can lead to glucose problems as well as systemic issues with yeast overgrowth, also known as candida albicans. Two of the main issues associated with yeast problems can be fatigue and brain fog, and whether theyre specifically caused by yeast or not, the brain typically responds better to diets with balanced levels of protein and healthy fats, and not those that are dependent on huge amounts of refined and empty carbs.

Eat this instead: Instead of refined sugars, choose sweets that use natural sweeteners instead, like raw honey or coconut sugar, which have less of a glycemic impact than cane sugar. Limiting sugar is also essential, but sugar cravings will diminish or lessen when protein is eaten with every meal. If you must have carbs, choose vegetable, fruit, and nut-based carbs so that youre balancing them with fiber and plenty of other nutrients.

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