Most of us who have received chemotherapy know what chemo brain is. My doctor warned me about “cognitive changes” that could occur as I progressed with chemotherapy, and she assured me that these changes would be temporary. Five years later, my children complain that Mom has a brain like a sieve. Many of us who have survived cancer have wondered if we’re crazy, and perhaps have been told that it’s all in our heads. Our friends may say, “well I forget things too, and I’m just (old, blonde, stressed, insert choice term here). Chemo brain is different.
Research is confirming that chemo brain is a direct result of receiving chemotherapy. Brain fog has been previously thought to be a consequence of the depression and anxiety that can be part of a cancer diagnosis, and it has been very hard to quantify because not all aspects of brain functioning are affected. Now that it is becoming better understood, there is more help and hope for survivors.
Chemo brain is usually temporary.
It can sometimes last up to two years before significantly improving, sometimes as long as five years. For a few people, it may never go away. The severity of chemo brain can be affected by many factors, including the choice of drugs and your previous activity level. It can be very frustrating for the survivor, and also for the survivor’s loved ones. Understanding what chemo brain is can help you and your family to cope with it.
Short term memory, ability to attend to details, and multi-tasking are the most affected.
My children marvel that I can remember the name of their first grade teacher, but I can’t remember what they told me just yesterday. Many disputes have arisen because they tell me I said things I have no recollection of. I believe that they are taking advantage of the situation! They bombard me with multiple requests to confuse me and take advantage. Fortunately, I have developed counterstrategies.
In certain occupations, chemo-brain can be disabling.
I made a brief attempt at secretarial work after my cancer treatment, which was a disaster. The constant interruptions combined with the endless details and the need to multitask rendered the job impossible. If you are suffering from chemo-fog and your job is suffering, you may be eligible for disability. Survivors in high pressure jobs that require quick decision making may find themselves in this position.
There are strategies you can use to adapt to chemo brain so it doesn’t interfere with enjoying your life.
Here are some ways I’ve trained myself and my family to work with me:
Write it down! Whatever I agree to is posted on the refrigerator until it is no longer needed.
Use your smartphone, notebook or computer. I have a post-it note application that I am constantly adding to, so I don’t have to retrieve random details from my brain.
Do not multitask. One thing at a time will help you keep your head clear and get things done.
Train your family to ask you one thing at a time, and train them not to interrupt you. If my children bombard me with multiple requests, they get nothing until they slow down. They’ve learned to ask me one thing at a time.
Remember your sense of humor! I once saw a t-shirt that read, “I have chemo brain. What’s your excuse?”
Do the things you love but don’t do them all at once. Consider this the perfect time in your life to let go of overachieving.
If these strategies don’t work, see your doctor. Chemo brain is not just in your head, and it is treatable.
More from Elizabeth Danu:
If You’re At Risk for Lymphedema
Aching, Tingling Hands Could Be Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Herbs and Chemotherapy: Approach With Caution