Brain zaps

• Brain zaps are not common during menopause. There is little research on the topic, so not much is known about it.
• Disrupted signal transmission in the nervous system can cause the so-called "shocks" in the head or body. Hormonal fluctuations may play a role in this.
• Brain zaps are also a side effect of tapering off antidepressants and other medications. Stress and anxiety can increase the likelihood of brain zaps.
• Gradually tapering off medication is important; always do this under the guidance of your doctor. Additionally, take more rest and ensure good sleep hygiene. Sleep deprivation can worsen symptoms.

The exact cause of brain zaps during menopause is still unknown. What exactly happens in your body to cause such a shock sensation is therefore unclear. However, experts believe that hormonal fluctuations may play a role.

Hormonal fluctuations likely disrupt the nervous system's ability to process signals properly. Neurons in your brain may then function less effectively. This miscommunication can cause a brief shock sensation in your head or elsewhere in your body.

Oestrogen also normally helps with the production of the "happiness hormone" serotonin. When your oestrogen levels drop, your serotonin levels may also decrease. This is one of the reasons why you may feel down during menopause. But if this drop is very sudden, you may experience a shock-like sensation.

Many women describe these shocks in the head as feeling like a short circuit. While it is not a common complaint during menopause, it does occur. Due to the lack of research on brain zaps and menopause, it is difficult to determine when and how often they occur.

Research from the Dutch Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb shows that women experience brain zaps more often than men after stopping antidepressants. It is also reported that brain zaps are more likely to occur just before falling asleep, right before a hot flush, or during sleep deprivation.

Other menopausal symptoms may contribute to the occurrence of brain zaps. For example, feelings of anxiety and stress may increase the likelihood of brain zaps. Stress affects the nervous system, and high levels of (mental) stress can also impact the functioning of neurons.

There is also scientific evidence that stopping certain medications (especially antidepressants) can cause brain zaps. This can happen if you stop abruptly, but also if you taper off the medication gradually. This is due to a sudden shortage of serotonin in your brain. Drug use may also be a potential cause. After using drugs, serotonin levels in your brain can also decrease.

There are various ways to effectively address brain zaps. You don’t have to live with them. You can support your body naturally with healthy nutrition, sufficient exercise, and rest. Additionally, supplements, medications, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help.

When your hormonal balance changes during menopause, it can affect your energy levels, sleep, digestion, and metabolism. Healthy nutrition, sufficient exercise, and rest can help prevent or alleviate symptoms. Small adjustments can already make a difference in how you feel.

When using medications or supplements, a balanced lifestyle supports your body in absorbing nutrients and processing medications. This makes supplements and medications more effective. Experts recommend the following for brain zaps:

• Gradually taper off medication. Brain zaps are often a side effect of stopping medications, such as antidepressants. Therefore, taper off your medication step by step. Always do this in consultation with your doctor.
• Prioritise rest. We are so accustomed to stress that we forget how to rest. Sometimes we don’t even realise we are stressed because it has become our default mode. You can reduce your body’s stress response yourself by simply taking more rest. Take enough breaks, practise relaxation techniques, walk in nature, write down your thoughts, and spend more time doing nothing. Try to take on fewer tasks. During menopause, you are more sensitive to stress, making rest even more essential.
• Eat sufficient amino acids (L-tryptophan). Tryptophan is converted into serotonin in the body. It is naturally found in foods such as salmon, eggs, poultry, and dairy products. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, it is used as a supplement for issues like sleep problems, hormonal complaints, and low moods.
• Focus on good sleep. Sleep is the most important form of rest. Sleep deprivation affects your brain and makes you more sensitive to stress, which can, in turn, worsen your sleep. Supplements for better sleep may provide support.