Hello everyone,

I have had Polycythemia Vera for about 3 years, and until recently I had never heard the term "brain fog." After reading other patients' experiences, I realized that it describes exactly what I have been struggling with.

I am an audiologist and have worked in the field for 12 years. Lately, I find myself forgetting basic words, having difficulty finding the right terms during conversations, and feeling that my reasoning and processing speed are slower, especially in professional situations. It is frustrating because these are tasks that used to be completely natural for me.

I previously used hydroxyurea but was resistant to it. I am currently being treated with ruxolitinib, which has helped some of my symptoms, but I have not noticed any significant improvement in the brain fog.

For those who experience brain fog, what strategies have helped you? Have any treatments, lifestyle changes, cognitive exercises, or other approaches made a noticeable difference?

I am only 33 years old, and sometimes it is hard to believe everything I have gone through over the last three years since my diagnosis. It has been a challenging journey, and I would really appreciate hearing from others who have had similar experiences.

Thank you.