Often Difficulty Concentrating, When Should You See a Doctor?

04 September 2025 2 min read

Has been reviewed and approved by dr. Moch. Dwikoryanto, Sp. BS

Have you ever experienced a moment where it was difficult to concentrate on something? For example, at work, you found it difficult to concentrate and understand the assigned task, leading to numerous errors.

In fact, it's normal to have difficulty concentrating sometimes. However, what if this condition occurs frequently? Should you see a doctor, and when is the best time to do so? Here's the discussion!

Symptoms of Difficulty Concentrating

Difficulty concentrating often causes different symptoms in each person. Some of these include:

  • Losing focus

  • Difficulty thinking about something

  • Easy to forget things

  • Inability to make quick decisions

  • Failed to complete enough tasks

  • Often make mistakes

  • Slow to respond

  • Can't feel calm when silent

A person may experience only one symptom, or more than two. Furthermore, the severity of the symptoms may vary. For example, some people experience sudden loss of focus, but only occasionally. However, others experience it frequently enough to make it difficult to understand what's happening around them or what's being discussed.

Causes of Difficulty Concentrating

There are various reasons why someone might have difficulty concentrating. Some can be managed independently, while others require further professional intervention. Here are some factors that can contribute to difficulty concentrating:

1. Sleep Disorders or Insomnia

How do you feel when you don't get enough sleep at night? You might feel sleepy all day and want to find a comfortable place to rest. This can affect your ability to concentrate, as your brain feels tired and needs rest.

2. Psychological Health Conditions

Stress, especially depression, and anxiety can make it difficult to focus on anything else. Your mind may focus on just one thing—the thing that's causing you stress or anxiety—making it harder for you to understand other issues around you.

3. Unhealthy Eating Habits

Nutrition plays a crucial role in your body's health. Dieting without considering your nutritional needs can impact the function of various organs, including the brain. Consequently, brain function will decline and your ability to concentrate will be affected.

4. Side Effects of Medications

Some medications also have adverse side effects on brain function, including affecting thinking and memory. However, these side effects may vary from person to person.

5. History of Diseases Suffered

Several diseases can also affect the brain's ability to think and remember. These include dementia, brain tumors, cerebral hemorrhages or strokes, and thyroid disorders.

Overcoming Difficulty Concentrating

For those of you who often have difficulty concentrating, there are several ways you can try, namely:

  1. Set a rest time at night

  2. Set up a meal plan and menu

  3. Make sure your body's daily nutritional needs are met

  4. Limit usage gadget like a cell phone

  5. Try to manage stress by doing something fun.

Meanwhile, if you're having difficulty concentrating due to taking medication, consult your doctor. Also, be sure to take your medication as directed.

When Should You See a Doctor When You Have Trouble Concentrating?

Difficulty concentrating can be caused by your daily habits and lifestyle. For these reasons, the problem can be resolved by improving these habits. However, if this difficulty concentrating begins to show worrying symptoms, such as increasingly frequent and severe memory problems, persistent errors, and sleep disturbances that persist, it is recommended to consult a doctor immediately.

You can visit our doctor Of Premier Hospital Surabaya, depending on your symptoms and medical history. Those with a history of brain tumors can also visit our excellent service at Brain Tumor Clinic & Pituitary Hormone Disorders for further examination. Register immediately to receive early treatment to increase your chances of recovery.

Contact Us

For information and to make appointment

Tags
dr. Moch. Dwikoryanto, Sp.BS, FINPS, FINSS
Bedah Saraf View Schedule
Loading data...