Brain fog and memory gaps after cardiac arrest or ECMO: is this normal?
The short answer
What people notice
Survivors report a lack of focus or attention, short-term and long-term memory problems, trouble planning and organizing, a reduced ability to learn new things, and language problems such as understanding speech or finding words.Source:American Heart Association
After time in intensive care, confusion, forgetfulness, poor concentration and trouble organizing and solving problems are also described.Source:Cleveland Clinic
Why it happens
During a cardiac arrest, blood flow to the brain stops, so the oxygen reaching the brain is limited or reduced. That can cause changes in thinking during recovery.Source:American Heart Association
How long it lasts
Some survivors report that these changes get better. Others have more severe changes and need long-term support.Source:American Heart Association
Changes in your physical and mental abilities can go on over the first year of recovery, and some survivors need ongoing support.Source:American Heart Association
What you can do
Tell your care team about any unusual symptoms or changes. Ask whether another professional should be part of your care, such as a physical therapist or a psychiatrist.Source:American Heart Association
Call 911 if...
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, a drooping face, weakness or numbness in an arm or leg (especially on one side), sudden vision changes, loss of balance, or a sudden severe headache with no known cause. These can be signs of a stroke.Source:American Stroke Association
Quick answers
Is brain fog normal after cardiac arrest?
It is commonly reported. The American Heart Association lists trouble with focus, memory, planning and learning new things among the changes survivors describe, and says some survivors improve while others need long-term support.
Source:American Heart AssociationWhy is my memory worse after ECMO or the ICU?
Cleveland Clinic describes memory and thinking problems, forgetfulness and poor concentration as part of post-intensive care syndrome, which can follow time in an intensive care unit. After a cardiac arrest, blood flow to the brain stops for a time, which can also change thinking.
Source:Cleveland ClinicAmerican Heart AssociationRelated
Where this comes from
General information, not medical advice. Talk to your care team.