Some common symptoms of brain fog during perimenopause include forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, inability to think clearly, and memory issues. Many women report experiencing cognitive symptoms such as feeling increasingly forgetful, having trouble remembering names, losing keys, and finding it hard to retain information. This can make it especially challenging to function at work, leading to difficulties in concentrating when reading or watching TV. Additionally, women may experience mental fatigue, confusion, and a general sense of cognitive cloudiness, often described as their brains feeling like "cotton wool".
The decline in estrogen and progesterone levels during perimenopause is closely related to these cognitive symptoms. The effects of changing hormone levels on the female brain, particularly the drop in progesterone and estrogen, can cause irritability, mood changes, mental confusion, and decreased energy, all of which can contribute to hormone-related brain fog. Sleep disturbances, such as night sweats, which are common during perimenopause, can also contribute to cognitive issues. The first hormone level to drop is usually progesterone, and this can be related to irritability, mood swings, and brain fog. The drop in progesterone can also cause sleep disturbance, which in itself can affect the brain's ability to function optimally.
In summary, brain fog during perimenopause is characterized by a range of cognitive symptoms, including forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and mental fatigue. These symptoms are closely associated with the decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, as well as the effects of changing hormone levels on the female brain. The cognitive cloudiness experienced during perimenopause can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life, making it a common concern for many women transitioning through this stage of life.