Concussion & Brain Fog: Why You Can’t Think Clearly & How to Fix It

Understanding Brain Fog After a Concussion

Brain fog is one of the most frustrating symptoms of a concussion. If you’ve been feeling mentally sluggish, struggling to concentrate, or forgetting things more than usual, you’re not alone.

At Concussion Care, we see many patients who experience persistent brain fog weeks or even months after their injury. The good news? You don’t have to live with it. In this article, we’ll explain why brain fog happens and provide actionable steps to help clear your mind and get back to feeling like yourself.

What Is Brain Fog After a Concussion?

Brain fog is a cognitive dysfunction that affects your ability to think clearly, remember things, and focus. It can feel like:

✔️ Mental fatigue – Even small tasks feel overwhelming.
✔️ Slow thinking – Conversations are harder to follow.
✔️ Memory problems – Forgetting names, dates, or why you walked into a room.
✔️ Difficulty concentrating – Struggling to read, work, or process information.

Many patients describe it as feeling like their brain is “foggy” or “clouded over.”

Why Does Concussion Brain Fog Happen?

Your brain is an energy-intensive organ, using 20% of your body’s total energy. After a concussion, it struggles to regulate blood flow, oxygen levels, and neurotransmitter balance, leading to cognitive sluggishness. Here’s why:

1. Reduced Blood Flow to the Brain

A concussion can disrupt normal circulation, meaning your brain isn’t getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function optimally.

2. Inflammation & Swelling

When your brain is inflamed, communication between neurons slows down. This makes thinking and processing information harder.

3. Disrupted Sleep Patterns

Sleep is crucial for brain recovery. Many concussion patients struggle with insomnia or fragmented sleep, making brain fog worse.

4. Autonomic Nervous System Imbalance

Concussions can throw off your autonomic nervous system, which controls essential functions like focus, reaction times, and heart rate variability.

How Long Does Brain Fog Last After a Concussion?

For most people, brain fog improves within a few weeks to months. However, if you’re still experiencing cognitive issues beyond 3 months, it could be a sign of Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS).

At Concussion Care, we specialise in helping people recover from prolonged concussion symptoms, including brain fog.

How to Get Rid of Brain Fog After a Concussion

If you’re tired of feeling mentally slow and unfocused, try these science-backed strategies to speed up your recovery:

1. Prioritise Brain Rest & Recovery

🚫 Reduce screen time (TV, phones, computers).
💡 Avoid overstimulating environments (bright lights, loud noises).
😴 Get at least 8 hours of sleep per night.

2. Increase Oxygen to Your Brain (HBOT Therapy)

One of the fastest ways to reduce brain fog is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). This treatment increases oxygen levels in your brain, which can significantly improve cognitive function and speed up recovery.

📍 At Concussion Care, we offer HBOT therapy as part of our comprehensive concussion treatment program.

3. Stay Hydrated & Eat Brain-Boosting Foods

🧠 Water: Aim for at least 2 litres per day.
🥦 Omega-3s: Found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
🥑 Healthy Fats: Avocados, coconut oil, and olive oil help repair brain cells.

4. Gentle Exercise & Movement

Walking, yoga, and light physical therapy can help restore blood flow to the brain and speed up recovery. Avoid intense workouts until cleared by a specialist.

5. Cognitive Therapy & Functional Neurology

Brain fog can be improved through targeted cognitive training and neurological rehab. Our team at Concussion Care specialises in helping patients retrain their brain for better focus, memory, and clarity.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your brain fog isn’t improving, or if it’s getting worse, it may be time to seek expert help.

🚨 Signs you need professional treatment:
🔴 Symptoms lasting longer than 3 months
🔴 Difficulty performing everyday tasks
🔴 Worsening memory, focus, or mental clarity
🔴 Increased headaches or dizziness

At Concussion Care, we offer personalised treatment plans to help you regain full cognitive function and get back to living your life.

💙 Book a consultation today and take the first step toward clear thinking.

📍 https://www.concussioncare.co.nz/contact

Final Thoughts

Brain fog after a concussion is frustrating but treatable. By focusing on brain rest, oxygen therapy, hydration, and professional care, you can speed up recovery and regain your mental clarity.

If you’re struggling with lingering symptoms, don’t wait. Concussion Care is here to help you recover fully.

🔗 Book a Consultation Today → https://www.concussioncare.co.nz/contact