Neurologist explains how monsoon triggers brain fog; shares practical tips to keep your mind sharp and focused
"As a neurologist, I've seen a noticeable rise in patients, especially working professionals, reporting symptoms like poor concentration, mental fatigue, and forgetfulness during this time of year. Commonly referred to as "brain fog," these symptoms may not be immediately alarming but can significantly affect productivity and overall mental health," says Dr. Santosh Sontakke, Consultant Neurologist, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune.
Dr Santosh shared with HT Lifestyle key insights on brain fog, including its symptoms, warning signs, and practical tips to overcome it.
What is brain fog?
Brain fog isn't a clinical diagnosis, but a term used to describe a state of mental confusion or lack of mental clarity. You may feel like your brain is clouded, you can't focus, remember simple things, or process information efficiently.
Why does monsoon trigger brain fog?
1. Reduced sunlight and vitamin D deficiency
During monsoons, cloudy skies and reduced exposure to sunlight can lead to lower levels of vitamin D, a crucial nutrient for brain health. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to mood disturbances, cognitive issues, and fatigue.
2. Increased humidity and dehydration
Many professionals forget to hydrate during the rainy season, thinking the cooler weather reduces fluid needs. In reality, high humidity leads to sweating and fluid loss, causing an electrolyte imbalance that can affect cognitive function.
Damp conditions during monsoons promote fungal, bacterial growth. (Shutterstock)
3. Infections and inflammation
The damp environment fosters the growth of fungi, moulds, and bacteria, increasing the risk of viral infections and allergic reactions. Even mild infections or inflammatory responses can lead to sluggish thinking and tiredness.
4. Poor sleep quality
Monsoons often disrupt sleep due to increased humidity, closed windows, or an erratic power supply that affects air conditioning. Sleep deprivation directly impacts attention span, memory, and decision-making.
5. Mental health triggers
For some, gloomy weather can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or low-grade depression. Long work hours combined with lack of sunlight can aggravate this, resulting in poor focus and chronic fatigue.
Red flags to watch out for
If you're experiencing:
Persistent lack of focus
Short-term memory lapses
Difficulty completing tasks
Irritability or uncharacteristic mood swings
It may be time to evaluate whether your brain fog is monsoon-related or if there's an underlying health issue at play.
Tips to beat brain fog this monsoon
1. Get your vitamin D levels checked
Supplements may be needed if levels are low, especially if you work indoors and get minimal sun exposure.
2. Stay hydrated and eat light
Add fluids like coconut water, buttermilk, and herbal teas. Avoid heavy, oily foods that can slow digestion and make you feel sluggish.
Stay hydrated and ensure adequate vitamin D levels for better cognitive function.(Freepik)
3. Improve air circulation
Mold and musty air can worsen brain fog. Use dehumidifiers or indoor air purifiers in your workspace and home.
4. Prioritise quality sleep
Maintain a regular sleep routine, limit screen time before bed, and consider natural sleep aids like melatonin (under medical supervision).
5. Take mental breaks
Incorporate short breaks, walks, or desk stretches to improve oxygen flow to the brain and boost focus.
6. Seek medical attention if persistent
If symptoms last longer than a few weeks or affect your daily functioning, consult a neurologist or physician. Sometimes, what appears to be "just brain fog" could be the tip of a more serious condition.
Monsoon is a season of transition, and like all transitions, it affects the body and mind in subtle ways. For working professionals navigating long hours, tight deadlines, and screen fatigue, this seasonal brain fog can be a hidden productivity killer. The key is not to ignore it but to understand its triggers and take simple steps to stay sharp, focused, and mentally well, even when it pours outside.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
4 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Dermatologist shares 5 common skin conditions during monsoon, recommends dos and don'ts to prevent seasonal rashes
Monsoon increases the likelihood of rashes and skin conditions due to the weather conditions. Soggy shoes, soaked clothes, and intense sweating are common during this season. They may all have a hand in causing skin-related issues in the monsoon. Dr Pranjal Joshi, Dermatologist at Varsity Skin & Wellness Clinic in Malviya Nagar, shared with HT Lifestyle how monsoon season's weather conditions particularly cause even more rashes and seasonal skin conditions. In the monsoon, rashes are common.(Shutterstock) He highlighted the risk factor because of weather conditions and said, "High humidity, constant dampness and reduced sun exposure often sharply flare the skin issues at this time of year. Rashes, infections, and flare-ups of chronic skin conditions are very common during the monsoons." Dr Joshi shared with us a guide, covering common skin conditions, along with essential dos and don'ts to reduce risks: Common skin conditions in monsoon: Monsoon worsens skin conditions and increases risk of fungal infections.(Shutterstock) Fungal infections: Problems such as Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch), Tinea Corporis (Ringworm) and Candidal infections, particularly in the skin folds. Folliculitis: An infection of the follicles, folliculitis appears as tender, small, red bumps. Contact dermatitis: Occurs with wet clothes, rain, or even artificial jewellery after excess exposure, causing the skin to react. Miliaria: More commonly heat rash or prickly heat, it is the result of sweat gland blockage. Eczema flares: Patients with pre- or co-existing eczema or atopic dermatitis may experience exacerbation of symptoms due to hot and humid environments. DOs: 1. Wear loose and breathable clothes: Opt for natural fabrics like cotton. It helps absorb sweat and allows the skin to breathe. Steer clear of tight babysitting clothes made from polyester or nylon as they trap moisture and heat. 2. Dry body thoroughly: Make sure to pat dry the skin folds to remove sweat and rain. 3. Foot care: Wear sandals instead of shoes and socks when possible. If shoes and socks are unavoidable, ensure that you change them twice daily. Apply antifungal powder twice a day. 4. Bath after sweating: Take a Hypo warm shower to remove sweat and dirt effectively. 5. Moisturise daily: While the weather may feel humid, the skin still needs weightless moisturisers which are gel and light-infused. Apply after bathing on damp skin. DON'Ts: 1. Persistent itching and rashes: Dermatologic symptoms such as scratching can lead to further inflammation and infection. 2. Overuse of harsh soaps or scrubs: Using these products too frequently increases one's chances of infection. 3. Self-medicate with steroids: Using Betamethasone or Clobetasol. Steroid creams bought without a prescription may provide fast relief. However, these can lead to fungal infections and skin atrophy with subsequent flare on withdrawal. 4. Personal item sharing: Sharing towels, razors, undergarments and even shoes and footwear is discouraged. When to see a dermatologist? Even if monsoon-related skin issues are somewhat manageable with basic hygiene and general care at home, not all signs and symptoms should be ignored. Dr Pranjal Joshi elaborated on when one should visit a doctor. He said, 'Most monsoon skin rashes can be managed with simple home care. However, the care of a dermatologist should be sought when a rash persists for more than 3-5 days without improvement, or when there are signs of increasing redness, purulent material, or swelling." He further highlighted the importance of timely medical attention in certain cases, and added, "Medical intervention is necessary when there is recurrent fungal infection in the same area. For those who used a steroid cream and the area is worsening (showing signs of skin thinning, burning, or flare), consultation with a dermatologist is required. It is best to prevent skin problems, especially those troublesome during monsoons. However, if your skin is trying to communicate something, it is best to heed its warning.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
7 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Paediatrician explains Blue Baby Syndrome: Know causes, symptoms and treatment
A newborn's initial days require close attention and care, as even subtle changes can indicate serious underlying health issues, which may worsen over time if it does not receive proper medical care. This is why a newborn's parents need to be aware of any warning signals, as timely intervention can make all the difference. One of the concerns of the early days is the Blue Baby Syndrome. Anytime there's a deficiency of oxygen in the baby's body, blue baby syndrome occurs. (Shutterstock) ALSO READ: Baby skincare in monsoon: Dermat shares 5 skin problems and how to prevent them Weighing in on this, Dr (Prof) Virender Kumar Gehlawat, Consultant - Paediatrics & Head PICU, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, shared with HT Lifestyle about blue baby syndrome, which can mysteriously appear in the early days. He said, 'For some infants, a mysterious bluish tint in the skin, lips, nails, and mucous membrane appears, signalling a medical emergency - one known as Blue Baby Syndrome. Blue Baby Syndrome is not a disease in itself, but a sign of an underlying medical condition often indicating an underlying cardiac, Pulmonary or haemoglobin-related disorder resulting from insufficient oxygen in a baby's bloodstream, medically known as cyanosis.' Blue baby syndrome happens to infants under six months old.(Shutterstock) Since the primary cause of Blue Baby Syndrome is a lack of adequate oxygen in the body, parents need to monitor their baby's oxygen levels. As Dr Gehlawat explained,'Detecting cyanosis with the naked eye can be challenging, especially in mild cases, dark-skinned babies, or those with anaemia. Therefore, using a pulse oximeter, a simple device that measures oxygen levels in the blood, is crucial whenever cyanosis is suspected.' Why does it happen? 'Blue Baby Syndrome occurs when there is insufficient oxygen reaching the body's tissues. This can happen due to three main reasons: heart defects, lung problems, and abnormal haemoglobin, ' Dr Gehlawat opined. He shared three main reasons which may contribute to the oxygen deficiency: Heart defects: Congenital heart diseases like Tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of great arteries, or truncus arteriosus may lead to mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood, reducing overall oxygen delivery to the body. Lung problems: Conditions like pneumonia, respiratory distress, or underdeveloped lungs in premature babies can impair oxygen exchange in the lungs, causing cyanosis. Abnormal haemoglobin: Rarely, disorders like methemoglobinemia interfere with the blood's ability to carry oxygen, leading to bluish discoloration even when lungs and heart are normal. What are the signs and symptoms? First of all, recognising the symptoms is essential, and can even be life-saving. A baby may seem healthy at birth, but certain symptoms can emerge soon after. Dr Gehlawat described the symptoms and tests, checks that help in diagnosis, "Babies with TOF may look normal at birth but begin to show signs and symptoms within the first few weeks of life. The classic symptom is bluish discolouration of the lips, tongue, and fingertips, especially during crying or feeding. Some babies experience sudden worsening of cyanosis, known as a 'Tet spell', where the child becomes very blue, breathless, and irritable. A good history, physical examination, 2D-Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), and other cardiac imaging confirm the diagnosis." Is it treatable? While it may seem disheartening when newborns face such serious conditions, Dr Gehlawat offered reassurance and explained that there's hope for recovery. He said, "Yes, Tetralogy of Fallot is a surgically correctable condition. Babies may initially require medications or a temporary surgical procedure to improve oxygenation. Definitive open-heart surgery, usually performed within the first year of life, repairs the structural defects and allows the heart to function normally. With timely intervention, most children go on to live healthy, active lives.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
The Hindu
a day ago
- The Hindu
External quality assurance laboratory set up to ensure quality of tests at govt facilities
To ensure the quality of tests conducted at government laboratories across Tamil Nadu, an external quality assurance laboratory has been established at the State Public Health Laboratory (SPHL), Directorate of Public Health (DPH) and Preventive Medicine. Set up at a cost of ₹1.13 crore, the laboratory will ensure the quality of tests conducted in 2,177 Primary Health Centres (PHC), 300 government hospitals and 36 medical college hospitals across the State without any cost to the participating government labs. Pilot launch As a pilot project, the DPH-EQAS (External Quality Assurance Scheme) programme is being rolled out at 116 PHC laboratories in Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu districts. According to an official release, laboratory services are essential for the diagnosis of diseases, surveillance and to initiate preventive and control measures. Currently, the Integrated Essential Laboratory Services (IELS) being implemented has further strengthened the scope and services in the State. Under IELS, samples are being referred from spoke labs to hub labs for various investigations. So, patients need not travel unnecessarily, and it reduces the out of pocket expenditure as well. So far, laboratories under DPH and other health institutions were sending samples for external quality checks to Christian Medical College, Vellore for an annual expenditure of ₹52 crore. Based on the participation of EQAS programme and other parameters, 1,622 PHC labs in Tamil Nadu are NABL certified under MELT programme. From now on, the SPHL can conduct the quality EQAS laboratories are not available in other government or their allied institutions. Hence, it was decided to establish the DPH-EQAS lab at SPHL. The National Health Mission, Tamil Nadu sanctioned ₹90 lakh for the procurement of laboratory Minister Ma. Subramanian inaugurated the DPH-EQAS lab and launched the pilot programme in the two districts. He also launched a mobile app developed for the project to upload laboratory results. After the successful implementation of the pilot project in Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu districts, ISO 17043 will be obtained from NABL and from January 2026 onwards, all government laboratories in T.N. will be participating in the DPH-EQAS Program, the release said.
