7 Tips to Help With Brain Fog or Poor Concentration During Doctor Appointments

Individuals need mental clarity during a doctor’s visit to address concerns properly, answer questions honestly, and fully understand what the doctor is saying. Doctor appointments can be frustrating, difficult, and less productive when dealing with brain fog or concentration issues. Seven tips to help with brain fog or poor concentration during doctor appointments include the following:

1. Get enough sleep the night before your appointment. Drowsiness can cause difficulty concentrating during a doctor’s appointment. Getting enough sleep, typically seven to nine hours each night, can help prevent sleepiness while improving concentration.
2. Eat a healthy meal or snack prior to the appointment. Unless directed to fast, you should eat a meal or snack, with protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats, before the appointment. This can prevent hunger or a drop in blood sugar levels, which can contribute to poor concentration.
3. Tell the doctor if brain fog or poor concentration are present. This may prompt the doctor to investigate and address the underlying cause, if it is unknown. It may also lead the doctor to be clearer and more direct with communication by checking frequently for understanding, and repeating or rephrasing information if needed.
4. Prepare a list of questions and concerns. Brain fog increases the likelihood of forgetting an important question or concern. To ensure needs are met, make a list ahead of time (on paper or a cell phone app) and reference it during the appointment.
5. Take notes during the appointment. Taking notes not only improves focus during the appointment, but also provides documentation that can be reviewed at a later time.
6. Ask questions during the appointment. Do not be afraid to speak up if you did not hear or understand what the doctor said. Doctor’s should always make sure you understand information and instructions.
7. Consider having a family member or friend go to the appointment with you. Having a trusted individual who is thinking clearly during the appointment can help ensure all questions and concerns are addressed. It can help make sure information is understood and follow-up instructions are received. This person could also take notes during the appointment for later review.

Additional source: Clockify