Getting tired and having brain fog? Don't dismiss them as symptoms of ageing warns cardiologist

Feeling constantly exhausted, struggling to focus, or finding it harder to process everyday information may not necessarily be signs of aging. Cardiologist Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj explained in an Instagram post that many people mistakenly attribute these symptoms to getting older, when in reality, they may stem from internal system burnout.

As he emphasized, the gradual dysfunction that sets in over the years is often the result of the body’s vital systems—such as the heart, brain, and metabolism—silently wearing out rather than a natural effect of age itself.

Misinterpreted Warning Signs

The constant feeling of fatigue is not always about growing old—it could be an indicator that your body’s energy systems are deteriorating. Similarly, the persistent mental fogginess or sluggishness that many accept as “normal aging” can actually be a form of cognitive inflammation. Even that stubborn fat accumulating around the abdomen may not simply be a product of time but a result of insulin resistance—a condition where the body struggles to manage blood sugar effectively. Moreover, rising blood pressure levels, often dismissed as hereditary, can signify that the body is under chronic stress and failing to maintain balance.

Most Decline Is Reversible

Dr. Bhojraj pointed out that many of the problems we associate with aging are in fact reversible—provided we recognize the signs early and take corrective steps. The key lies in understanding what our bodies are signaling before these subtle symptoms evolve into long-term illnesses.

Understanding Brain Fog

The Cleveland Clinic defines “brain fog” as a cluster of symptoms leading to cognitive impairment—affecting memory, focus, clarity, and attention. Those experiencing it often struggle to concentrate, forget recent information, lose their train of thought, or feel mentally drained. Reactions become slower, and even recalling simple words can feel challenging.

Possible Causes

Brain fog can arise from several factors, including poor sleep, chronic stress, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal changes such as menopause and pregnancy. It may also accompany autoimmune conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis, or fibromyalgia, as well as metabolic disorders such as diabetes.

Mental health challenges like depression and anxiety, and neurodivergent conditions including ADHD or autism, can further contribute to this clouded mental state. Recognizing and addressing these root causes can restore clarity and vitality—proving that ageing alone isn’t to blame.