About this topic
Many people who are having cancer treatment have side effects. They may have memory and thinking problems. Some people say it is a mental fog. Cancer patients often call it chemo brain. ‚
Signs of chemo brain may be different for each person. This condition does not last forever. It may take up to 2 years after treatment to go away. ‚
What are the causes?
The exact cause of chemo brain is unknown. Doctors believe that many things may play a part in chemo brain. These are: ‚
- Low blood counts
- Worry and stress
- Cancer treatment like chemo, immunotherapy, or radiation
- Low mood
- Fatigue or weakness
- Hormonal changes
- Infection
- Problems with nutrition
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to have chemo brain if you have had a brain tumor or cancer. Your risk is higher if you have needed to have high doses of chemo or radiation. Your risk is also higher if your treatment was given directly to the brain or central nervous system. Being treated at a young age also raises your risk for chemo brain. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Trouble paying attention
- Trouble finding the right word
- Problem learning new skills
- Trouble doing more than one thing at a time
- Short attention span
- Problem calling things to mind
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. No specific tests can diagnose this condition. Your doctor may order tests to rule out other causes of problems with thinking. Your doctor may order: ‚
- Blood tests
- CT or MRI scan
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
There is no standard treatment for chemo brain. Your doctor may send you to an expert for proper treatment of this condition. Your doctor will work with you to make a plan based on your signs. ‚
Your doctor may want you to work to train your brain. The doctor may suggest exercises for you to do over and over to help you remember. The doctor may also ask you to write down things that may lead to your memory problems. This may be food, activities, or distractions. ‚
Are there other health problems to treat?
Cancer treatment may cause other health problems like low mood, sleeping problems, low iron, and early menopause. These health problems can also be considered factors in having memory problems. The doctor will talk about choices to treat and control these health issues. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Keep a detailed planner. List all important events to keep you updated. Keep a journal of your everyday activity. This will prevent you from forgetting your tasks.
- Take down notes of important thoughts that come across your mind. You might need these thoughts later.
- Set up and follow daily routines. Post your plan in places that you can easily see.
- Get a good nights sleep. Rest as needed.
- Take breaks often. Let your brain rest after an activity.
- Focus on one task at a time. Avoid multitasking.
- Lower your stress. It is not easy to have memory problems. Do not push yourself to remember each thing right away. It may take some time for your brain to get better.
- Exercise your brain by doing daily crossword puzzles or number games.
- Regular exercise is good for your overall health.
What drugs may be needed?
There are no drugs available to treat chemo brain. But, there are drugs that may help the signs of chemo brain. Talk to your doctor about your choices. ‚
Will there be any other care needed?
Your doctor may send you to a neuropsychologist. This person may work with you to get back skills you may have lost. ‚
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
There is no known way to prevent this condition. ‚
Helpful tips
- Make your family and friends aware of your condition and how can they help.
- Repeat information to yourself a couple of times to help memory.
- Practice repeating names, dates, and events you want to remember.
Where can I learn more?
American Cancer Society ‚
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/news/expertvoices/post/2012/04/09/chemo-brain-it-is-real.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚