From the Editor

by Amy Zellmer, Editor-in-chief

Fall is in the air! I love the changing of the seasons and the energy it brings; however, each season also brings its own set of challenges (for me).

Summer can be draining with the hot and humid weather; winter can be painful when low pressure fronts come in and drop a blizzard on us; spring is riddled with allergens; but fall — fall is the holy grail of seasons for me! The mild temperatures, stable weather, and minimal allergens make fall a welcome season for me in the Midwest.

As we talk about seasons, it also brings to mind this month’s theme: brain fog. Brain fog is the most common complaint I hear from brain injury survivors, and I believe some of my above-mentioned seasonal complaints contribute to brain fog.

Hot, humid weather can really wreak havoc on our autonomic system, especially if we already have temperature control problems or dysautonomia.

Allergies can cause inflammation and can trigger histamine response in our bodies, which can feel like pressure in our head.

Weather fronts and falling barometers can trigger headaches, which can also feel like pressure inside the head.

Additionally, the foods we eat can also play a large part in brain fog, or a feeling a fuzziness. Sensitivities to gluten, dairy, and histamine all play a role in inflammation and brain fog.

If you’ve been struggling with brain fog for a long time, you may be in a constant state of inflammation. Until you get the inflammation under control, you may never feel relief. But there is good news with the bad —great treatment options for inflammation are available!!

As you will read in the pages of this issue, you will begin to see a new perspective on what might be triggering your fog and fuzziness and learn ways to eliminate it.

For me personally, functional neurology was a huge part of my recovery. Combining certain exercises and modalities, along with supplements and diet, were critical. I have mostly eliminated brain fog from my life. Of course, I do have occasional flare-ups (with the above-mentioned seasonal issues) but I have learned what to watch for, and how to counteract it quickly and efficiently.

I hope this issue can bring you some much needed relief from brain fog, and help you understand where it is coming from, and how you, too, can learn how to avoid it!