Most people associate psoriatic arthritis with joint pain. But if you’ve ever been unable to concentrate and put tasks off as a result — and then gotten frustrated about why you just can’t get it done — it could be brain fog, another symptom of psoriatic arthritis.
Brain fog is a term that’s used to describe an episode of mental confusion, which often results in lack of focus, poor memory, and reduced mental clarity. In one study nearly half of the participants with psoriatic arthritis experienced mild cognitive impairment.
There are a number of possible reasons people with psoriatic arthritis may have brain fog. Psoriatic arthritis symptoms such as fatigue and pain can make it difficult to think clearly. Inflammation related to the condition may also affect brain function. And people with psoriatic arthritis have a greater risk of depression, which can affect cognitive function, concentration, and memory.
Another potential cause of brain fog: “If you have an autoimmune disease such as psoriatic arthritis, you’re more likely to have fibromyalgia,” says Anca Askanase, MD, a professor of medicine and the director of rheumatology clinical trials at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City. “Fibromyalgia is associated with sleep disturbance, sleep fatigue, and brain fog.”
The good news? There are steps you can take to manage brain fog if you have psoriatic arthritis. Here are five strategies to try.
1. Stay Active
Regular physical activity can help you not only manage symptoms such as joint pain but also improve cognitive function. Research shows that exercise combined with cognitive training can improve global cognition — including attention, memory, and word recognition — and orientation in adults with mild cognitive impairment.
So get moving. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 30 minutes of aerobic activity at least five days a week, plus strength-training exercises two days a week. Walking, swimming, and biking are good aerobic options for people who have psoriatic arthritis.
2. Eat a Balanced Diet
Although there’s no one diet for managing psoriatic arthritis, what you eat can affect your overall health and your cognitive health.
Research shows that eating plans with an overall dietary approach (rather than keying in on a specific nutrient or health fad) are linked to a low risk of cognitive decline. Examples include the DASH, Mediterranean, MIND, and Nordic diets.
3. Get More (and Better) Sleep
“Having appropriate sleep hygiene is very important for people with psoriatic arthritis, as well as for people with fibromyalgia,” says Manika Zeri, MD, a rheumatologist at Atrium Health Rheumatology in Charlotte, North Carolina. Why? Sleep deprivation disrupts your brain’s ability to function properly, which can lead to impaired judgment, lowered cognitive flexibility, and a poor attention span.
“It’s important to zero in on why you can’t fall asleep or stay asleep,” says Dr. Zeri. “Things such as limiting caffeine intake, exercising, not having a TV in your bedroom, and turning off electronics close to bedtime can all reduce the chance of a sleepless night.”
4. Meditate
Mindfulness can play a significant role in stress relief, but it can also help with mental clarity, something people with brain fog often lack. In fact, one study found that meditation may increase all-important gray matter, which includes areas of the brain responsible for decision-making, memory, and more.
There are many types of meditation you can try. If you’re new to meditating, you can begin by sitting or lying in a quiet room, closing your eyes, and focusing on your breathing for a few minutes a day.
5. Play Brain Games
Like your heart and lungs, your brain needs exercise to stay sharp and clear. And research has found that taking up a hobby, such as dancing, knitting, or painting, could help provide cognitive stimulation.
The benefits of a hobby can be twofold: It helps with mental clarity and increases the likelihood of social interaction. The latter is important for people with psoriatic arthritis, who may feel isolated or alone because of the condition.
The Takeaway
Brain fog is a common yet challenging symptom of psoriatic arthritis, characterized by impaired memory, a lack of focus, and mental confusion.
Implementing habits such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, prioritizing sleep, meditating, and engaging in hobbies can help boost cognitive function and alleviate brain fog.
You should also talk to your doctor to determine if related health issues, such as depression or fibromyalgia, may be contributing to brain fog.
