NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — Usually when people are lacking focus, they zone out, which is very common, and usually associated with distractions of being tired. However, there are times when these lapses could indicate an underlying health condition, and recognizing the signs and symptoms is important to intervene early and get treatment. There are five situations where zoning out should cause you to look into it. One thing to look for is if you have persistent brain fog — the feeling of mental cloudiness or haziness. If you frequently struggle to concentrate, process information, or recall memories, there could be an underlying problem with your cognitive function. This can also be associated with thyroid disorders, vitamin deficiencies, or chronic fatigue syndrome. Raising awareness about the importance of adoption this November Another thing to pay attention to is if you're having difficulty concentrating, especially if it interferes with daily activities or tasks. It could be a sign of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, medication side effects, or neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS). If you experience sudden cognitive changes — forgetfulness, confusion, or disorientation — you should be concerned. They can indicate a serious underlying condition like dementia, Alzheimer's, or a transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke). You should also be on the lookout for mood swings or irritability since they could be an indication of a mental health disorder like depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety. The final sign is physical symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or dizziness. Again, these can point to underlying medical issues including migraines, chronic fatigue syndrome, or anemia. You should pay attention to any patterns between the symptoms to identify potential causes. Dismissing the occasional zoning out is normal, but it should be worrisome if there are accompanying symptoms. If you are able to address these things early, you can protect your mental health and well-being for the long term. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW