Train Your Brain: That Fuzzy Feeling

Train Your Brain: That Fuzzy Feeling

Heather Bechtel, MD

While working with the medical team at the Columbus Marathon finish line in 2022, a lady almost fell into my arms.  “My thing, it’s not good.”  I asked “What’s your thing, honey?  What do you need?”  She said “It’s my…my thing.  It’s not good.  It’s baaaaad.”

We got her in a wheelchair and put a water bottle in her hand.  By the time we arrived at the medical tent, she was able to tell us “her thing” was her ankle.  The medical student following me asked “what was that? Some sort of post-exertional encephalopathy?”  I told him I called it “trail head.”

So, what is that fuzzy feeling that creeps into our head on longer workouts?  

• Some might experience this as simple “runner’s high.”
• I think the experience of “trail math” is also a common one. This is where one tries to calculate how many miles are left and does the arithmetic wrong.  
• Sometimes you can’t think of a word you commonly use.
• Still others end up on a bench unable to sit up and confused about their surroundings (what happens on the trail stays on the trail).

There are very different severities here.  So, what is fun, what is a nuisance, and what is dangerous?

“Runner’s high” is due to our bodies producing endocannabinoids.  It’s pretty harmless, even pleasant.  If fuzziness is in this category, think about a few safety rails.  Tell your coach what’s going on.  If you’re alone, make sure someone knows where you are and call them to update them.  Know the route, and where your waypoints are if you need to take a break.

Fuzziness can be a sign of low sugar “bonking” or dehydration.  It might also be a sign of low salt, or hyponatremia.  Take in extra fluids or fuel or salt if you suspect you need it.  You might also take a short break or adjust your pace.

Confusion is dangerous if it’s due to heat stroke, cold exposure, or another medical emergency.  Warning signs include dizziness, throbbing headache, double vision, abnormally red or hot skin, shivering, or loss of coordination.

If you have confusion and these other symptoms, seek help from a coach, from the emergency MIT line, or call 911.  Have a seat at a visible location just off the trail, with shelter if possible.

One of the advantages to MIT is that we can look out for each other.  Make sure you check in on the person who is much less talkative than usual today.  Tell a coach if you’re concerned about yourself or someone else.  And check out resources on our education section for how to smartly prehydrate to avoid problems before they start.

Running and walking do wonderful things for our brains, both for cognitive and mental health. Let’s keep those brains happy and safe!