Endometriosis Support Group
Endometriosis is a common medical condition where the tissue lining the uterus is found outside of the uterus, typically affecting other organs in the pelvis. The condition can lead to serious health problems, primarily pain and infertility. A major symptom of endometriosis is pain, mostly in the lower abdomen, lower back, and pelvic area.
Ok, it's now been over 4 years of pain and problems and it's wearing on me.
I feel like the pain has caused my concentration and memory to decrease. Does anyone else feel like their memory is impacted? Has anyone done any real tests to see if it really has gone down?
It's so annoying...
I feel like the pain has caused my concentration and memory to decrease. Does anyone else feel like their memory is impacted? Has anyone done any real tests to see if it really has gone down?
It's so annoying...
No, but seriously, my short-term memory has definitely been affected, and I feel like I've lost some of my higher reasoning as well. I think some of this could be hormonal, but most of it for me is from pain. I have done some reading on how chronic pain affects the brain. Basically, you're in a constant state of alarm when you're in pain all the time. Your brain tries to shut off rational thinking because it's not efficient or useful in a dangerous situation. The loss of memory and concentration occur because all your mental energies are focused on survival and getting out of danger as fast as possible. This can have a significant impact on our thinking. I believe this is why so many of us struggle with anxiety as well.
I've never done any kind of testing or brain training, so I don't really know where I stand. I'd be interested to find out. I read constantly and try to learn new things all the time to stay sharp, but I should probably do more. I have noticed an incredible difference since I'm no longer in pain all the time. My husband has noticed, too. I'm so much more present, and I'm able to converse like a normal person. I feel like my brain was hijacked seven years ago, and I just now got it back!