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Chemo and forgetfulness: It's not all in your head

By Amanda Genge, Staff Writer, myOptumHealth

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If you're undergoing chemotherapy and you feel more forgetful than ever, it's not all in your head. Studies have shown that this side effect from treatment is real, and quite common. You may also find that you can't pay attention, stay focused, learn new things or even manage daily activities.

What causes "chemo brain?"

A variety of factors can cause cognitive symptoms:

• The chemotherapy treatment or even the cancer itself
• Poor sleep and fatigue
• Anxiety, depression and stress
• Low red blood count (anemia)
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medications used to treat side effects from chemotherapy

Most doctors used to think these problems with memory and focus were only caused by the side effects of the chemo. After all, those treated for side effects like fatigue, anxiety and depression usually showed improvement in cognitive function, too. But newer research suggests that the chemo itself may cause these symptoms in up to one fourth of people who suffer from them.

Doctors are studying whether certain people are more likely to suffer these cognitive problems with chemo as well. They're also looking into exactly how the brain is affected, and if certain chemo drugs cause more problems than others. Studies have shown promising results when some patients with memory problems are treated with modafinil, a medicine used to treat narcolepsy. In time, this research may help doctors treat or even prevent cognitive side effects of cancer treatments.

Tips for improving memory and concentration

Feeling foggy? Start by talking to your doctor about your symptoms. He or she will work to pinpoint possible causes and treat them. In addition, the following tips can make it easier to cope:

• Don't overdo it. If you're working, ask your boss about reducing your load. Don't commit to projects or events that you don't have the energy for. You'll just feel overwhelmed. Also make sure to get plenty of rest.
• Focus on one thing at a time. Avoiding distractions will help you stay on task.
• Label cabinets and drawers. This will help you to find things quickly.
• Get help from friends and family. They can assist with household tasks like paying bills and grocery shopping. Having an extra set of hands and eyes will make it easier to get things done without missing anything.
• Keep a calendar and make lists. Use a personal organizer or calendar to keep track of appointments. Also make lists of things that need to be done. Assign due dates to everything and check tasks off as you finish them.
• Be patient with yourself. Forgetting words or misplacing things can be frustrating. Don't be hard on yourself if you feel like you're just not able to function the way you used to. Your body is going through a lot right now.
• Stay active. With your doctor's OK, try walking, swimming or doing yoga to keep your body and mind refreshed and alert.
• Keep your brain busy. Doing crossword puzzles, playing a musical instrument or even knitting are activities that will exercise your brain.

Thankfully, most people notice an improvement in brain function when chemotherapy ends. Progress may be slow, but most people return to normal over time.

View the original Chemo and forgetfulness: It's not all in your head article on myOptumHealth.com 

SOURCES:

• American Cancer Society. Seeking solutions to "chemo brain."

• American Society of Clinical Oncology. Chemobrain.

• Carroll JK, Kohli S, Mustian KM, Roscoe JA, Morrow GR. Pharmacologic treatment of cancer-related fatigue. Oncologist. 2007;12(Suppl 1):43-51.

• American Society of Clinical Oncology. Cognitive problems.