Science

Identifying and managing brain fog caused by SM

Susannah Barnett |
Photo shows woman holding forehead while working from home/Getty Images
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Brain fog caused by SM can be debilitating, but fortunately, there are ways to manage it and reduce its effect on your daily life.

The symptom burden of systemic mastocytosis (SM) includes a range of physical and neurological symptoms, including brain fog, which can impair memory, create anxiety and increase fatigue levels. The effect of brain fog on quality of life can be significant, with consequences felt across all parts of daily life.

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a rare blood disorder that can occur in both men and women aged 50 years and older. It is the result of a KIT gene mutation that leads to uncontrollable mast cell production. When mast cells release histamines and other chemicals into the bloodstream as part of their immune response, this triggers an allergic reaction.

What symptoms are common in SM?

People living with SM learn to recognize and avoid their individual symptom triggers. These may include one or more of the following: emotional stress, physical exertion, sudden changes in hot and cold, spicy food, foods high in histamines, some medications, pollen strong perfumes, insect bites, friction on the skin and alcohol.

Symptoms of SM include skin irritation, hives, flushing, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, bone and muscle pain, lightheadedness, headache, brain fog, mood changes, anxiety and anaphylaxis.

Learn more about SM signs and symptoms

There is currently no cure for SM, and treatment is centered around symptom prevention and management with medication and lifestyle modifications.

What is brain fog?

Brain fog refers to a lack of clarity in thinking and reduced concentration, and at times, confusion. It can exist for different reasons, including chronic disease, stress, pregnancy, menopause, depression and chronic fatigue syndrome. In people living with SM, it is a psycho-cognitive manifestation of the disease that may impair cognitive function, memory, attention and mood.

Brain fog has been linked to the presence of mast cells in the central nervous system. If mast cells release too much histamine, or if foods high in histamine are consumed, this can lead to brain fog and other SM symptoms.

Managing brain fog

Learning to manage brain fog can help reduce the anxiety and frustration associated with its effect on quality of life. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help manage brain fog and hopefully reduce its severity:

  • Rigorously manage symptom triggers to avoid extra histamine being released in the body
  • Prioritize well-being and avoid stress
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs
  • Eat healthy, balanced meals
  • Sleep seven to eight hours per night
  • Stay active
  • Take vitamin supplements, including D, B12, C, iron, omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium
  • Don’t let your brain become fatigued; take regular breaks when reading or working
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