This sounds like lupus brain fog, Amy, and can accompany flares. Please see your doctor as soon as possible! Meanwhile, please be very cautious and avoid heavy machinery, dangerous devices, etc.
Don't be alarmed, as it tends to improve as your disease control improves.
4 hours ago (edited)
Not active in fear of miserable flare
4 hours ago (edited)
Are you experiencing memory loss, confusion, and getting lost while driving with lupus?
These are real and recognized symptoms of lupus-related brain fog (also called cognitive dysfunction). Many MyLupusTeam members describe similar experiences — forgetting conversations, people, and places, sometimes even without being in a Show Full Answer
Are you experiencing memory loss, confusion, and getting lost while driving with lupus?
These are real and recognized symptoms of lupus-related brain fog (also called cognitive dysfunction). Many MyLupusTeam members describe similar experiences — forgetting conversations, people, and places, sometimes even without being in a flare. Some common contributors to lupus brain fog include:
- Poor sleep — even disrupted sleep can worsen memory and confusion
- Fatigue — lupus-related tiredness can trigger dissociative thought patterns
- Lupus flares — cognitive symptoms often worsen alongside other lupus symptoms
- Chronic pain — ongoing pain takes a toll on mental clarity Getting lost while driving is a serious safety concern and worth flagging to your doctor right away. Don't brush it off — your rheumatologist or healthcare provider may recommend cognitive testing and can look at whether medication adjustments or other changes might help.
Some strategies that may help day-to-day:
- Writing lists and taking notes
- Working with a cognitive therapist
- Getting consistent, quality sleep
- Regular gentle exercise
- Brain exercises like puzzles
5 hours ago
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