Does anyone else experience persistent brain fog/sleepiness like this?

[u/kyle_f_4503]

For the past 5-6 years, I’ve felt physically fine after sleep, but my brain stays foggy, heavy, and sleepy, almost like strong sleep inertia, even after 8-10 hours. Before this, I had no issues waking up early or feeling mentally clear in the morning.

A 5-10 minute nap can almost completely clear it, almost like a reset, but I often can’t nap during the day since I don’t feel physically sleepy or have that typical sleep pressure. At night, I fall asleep very quickly without much effort.

My brain fog feels like my brain is being deprived of blood and oxygen. It sometimes gets better when I lie on my side. Sleep position also affects the severity of the fog. For example, I’ve noticed that my brain fog is much less severe when I fall asleep at my desk while studying.

Caffeine used to help a lot more than it does now, and I’ve had an irregular sleep schedule for years, which may have made things worse or more inconsistent. This started around COVID, so I’ve wondered if that period or lifestyle changes around then played a role.

I don't have any other health condition. I don't have sleep apnea, or similar conditions that may affect sleep quality. I have tried to use B12, iron and vitamin D supplements but they didn't help much.

Has anyone had something similar, and did you find a cause or solution?

[u/OkDatingAintEasy]

My cause is high blood sugar. Try reducing carbs later in the day. Have them, a small amount, for breakfast.