About Brain Fatigue Common Symptoms
About Brain Fatigue Syndrome
An unusually rapid drain on mental energy
People suffering from brain fatigue may experience rapid mental exhaustion after mental activity, which is disproportionate to what is expected. Some can continue working, but for others, problems related to work and everyday activities are common. Many are unable to work and have difficulties with activities such as meetings, shopping, cooking, reading, and spending time with family and friends. In today’s society, processing and handling a lot of information can be too taxing for those with brain fatigue. Sometimes, complete fatigue occurs quickly and without warning.
Long recovery time
Mental recovery time is prolonged, and it’s important to consider this extended recovery time regarding working capacity. A person with brain fatigue may perform like any other person but cannot sustain this performance over a prolonged period.
Poor concentration
Concentration and attention involve keeping focus on important tasks over time. Noise and the need to switch attention between different focus points can affect concentration. When attention fails, it becomes difficult to recognize and follow everything happening around them, making it hard to participate in discussions, read, or watch TV. The more details to handle, the harder it is to stay focused.
Variations over the day
The degree of mental brain fatigue often varies throughout the day. Many people with brain fatigue are more active in the morning but perform less well in the afternoon and evening. Rest during the day often improves mental capacity. Performance often fluctuates between days and is related to the activity level on previous days.
Memory problems
Memory is often perceived as impaired but usually works well when tested. Events and conversations may not receive enough attention, making them harder to remember. Strong emotions like joy and anger are easier to recall, while regular conversations are easily missed.
Slowness of thinking
Thinking takes longer, and the process itself is slower. For example, reading may take longer, and keeping up with TV subtitles can be difficult.
Difficulty getting started with an activity
People with brain fatigue often find it hard to start activities, even if they want to. This includes both taxing and everyday activities.
Emotional lability and irritability
Emotional lability, tearfulness, and irritability are common. People may cry over minor things or become annoyed easily, though the irritation often passes quickly. These symptoms are challenging for both the person and those around them but are connected to brain fatigue.
Stress sensitivity
Stress sensitivity is very common. Demands and multitasking are experienced as stressful, and there is often a marked difference compared to before the injury or disease.
Sleeping difficulties
People with brain fatigue may have increased or decreased night sleep, sleep for short periods, or wake up often. Intense daytime activities can negatively affect sleep. Reducing the tempo to allow time for recovery and mental rest can improve sleep. In some cases, medication may be beneficial.
Noise and light sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to noise and light is common and can cause annoyance. Using earplugs or sunglasses can help preserve energy for more important activities.
Headaches
Headaches often appear and become more intense after activities requiring concentration, attention, and mental work.