What is the Origin of Chronic Cognitive Impedance?

This descriptive term arises from the intersection of clinical psychology and functional medicine, providing a concise label for the common patient complaint of "brain fog" or sustained mental fatigue. It emphasizes the underlying physiological 'impedance' or resistance to efficient neural operation. The concept formalizes the connection between subtle systemic stress and measurable cognitive decline.

What is the Mechanism of Chronic Cognitive Impedance?

The impedance often results from chronic, low-grade inflammation, sustained hypercortisolemia, or subtle thyroid hormone resistance, all of which disrupt neuronal communication pathways. These factors interfere with mitochondrial respiration and neurotransmitter balance, effectively slowing down the rate of information processing. The persistent metabolic stress reduces the neuronal reserve needed for high-demand cognitive tasks, directly leading to the subjective feeling of mental drag and reduced productivity.

Chronic Cognitive Impedance ∞ Area

Chronic Cognitive Impedance

Meaning

Chronic Cognitive Impedance refers to a persistent, non-pathological state of subjective and objective cognitive slowing, characterized by difficulties in processing speed, executive function, and mental clarity. This is distinct from frank dementia, representing a sustained drag on mental efficiency often rooted in systemic metabolic or hormonal dysregulation. It is a clinical manifestation of suboptimal brain bioenergetics and compromised neural signaling.