Onco team Consultant Medical Oncologist, Haemato-oncologist and BMT Physician, St Martha’s Hospital, Bengaluru.
Cancer and its treatment can have adverse effects. Chemo brain is one among them, and is reported by many cancer patients.
Cancer treatment-related cognitive impairment, cancer-related cognitive change, or post-chemotherapy cognitive impairment — also known as chemo fog — are other names for chemo brain.
Unfortunately, about 75% of cancer patients experience chemo brain during their cancer treatment and over 35% of them may continue to suffer from it even after the treatment.
Chemobrain results in a decline in cognitive functions, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks or think clearly, and at times causing an inability to recall events or facts that were previously easy to remember. Cognitive functions include multiple mental abilities, such as learning, thinking, reasoning, memory, problem solving, decision making, and attention.
Here are some examples of what patients with chemo brain may experience:
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Trouble in multitasking
- Confusion
- Short attention span
- Trouble learning new things
- Taking longer than usual to complete routine tasks
Contrary to the name, “chemo brain” is not limited to people who undergo only chemotherapy. It is associated with a variety of treatment modalities, such as radiation therapy, hormonal therapy, immunotherapy, or even cancer itself.
How does cancer and cancer treatments affect the brain?
The exact cause of chemo brain is unknown. Research is ongoing to understand how cancer or its treatment contributes to this condition. Multiple factors may play a role:
- The emotional upheaval associated with a cancer diagnosis and treatment can result in problems with thinking and memory.
- Cancers that originate from or metastasize to the brain can have a direct impact on brain function.
- Cancer cells may release chemicals that interfere with brain cell function.
- Physical ailments caused by cancer or its treatment — such as anemia, infection, or sleep problems — might contribute to cognitive difficulties.
How can we cope with chemo brain?
There are several measures patients can take to lessen the impact of chemo brain on daily life and reduce its intensity.
Engage in physical activities
Exercise boosts blood flow to key regions of the brain associated with memory, helping reduce cognitive issues. It also helps manage stress, depression, and fatigue. Activities like gardening, walking, or caring for a pet can improve attention and concentration.
Get enough rest and sleep
Lack of sleep can impair brain function. Avoid brain-stimulating foods like coffee and chocolate, and refrain from using electronic devices at least a couple of hours before bedtime. Meditation and relaxation techniques can improve sleep quality. Take regular breaks during the day to prevent mental fatigue.
Ensure intake of sufficient nutrition
Nutrition is essential for optimal mental function. Including more fruits and vegetables in your diet provides antioxidants that help protect brain cells from treatment-related damage. With a doctor’s guidance, multivitamin supplements may also support brain health. Keeping a food journal can help maintain a balanced diet.
Indulge in positive activities
Engaging in mentally stimulating activities like crosswords, sudoku, puzzles, learning a new language, or spiritual practices can help improve focus, memory, and overall cognitive function.
Schedule your day
Create daily routines and stick to them. Plan demanding tasks for times when your energy is highest. Use planners or notes to track appointments and the location of important items. Focus on one task at a time and avoid multitasking. Seek help from loved ones to conserve mental energy.
Seek medical help
If memory loss significantly affects daily life, consult a specialist. They may recommend cognitive rehabilitation strategies, tools like planners or diaries, and techniques to better process new information. Keeping a log of memory issues helps both you and your doctor understand patterns and manage symptoms effectively. Accepting the issue and avoiding self-criticism can also aid in coping.
How long does chemo brain last?
The symptoms of chemo brain often improve over time. In most cases, they fade within 9–12 months after treatment ends. However, about 20% of cancer survivors experience long-term cognitive changes. Scientists are actively researching treatments to prevent cognitive decline and restore brain function, aiming to improve the quality of life for patients affected by this condition.