Do I Have Chemo Brain?

If cancer treatment affects your ability to think, learn, remember, use judgment and make decisions, you’re not alone. Many patients in chemotherapy experience issues with memory, concentration and mental clarity—even after treatment. It’s called chemo brain or chemo fog, and it’s common. Studies suggest that up to 75 percent of cancer patients experience some form of cognitive dysfunction during treatment, and around 35 percent continue to have issues long after treatment ends.

Franciscan Health, occupational therapist Bridget Kress and speech-language pathologist Darcy Hughes help you understand what chemo brain is and whether your symptoms indicate you may have it.

What Is Chemo Brain?

Chemotherapy targets cancer cells but can also impact healthy cells throughout your body. It can lead to cognitive issues, such as difficulty with concentration and fatigue.

Chemo brain is a challenge to diagnose because its symptoms can overlap with other conditions like anxiety, insomnia, menopause and the natural aging process. Physicians often need to eliminate these other potential causes before they can confirm a diagnosis of chemo brain. They can also use the Montreal Cognitive Assessment test to help screen for cognitive impairment.

Do I Have Chemo Brain Symptoms?

If you think you might have chemo brain, ask yourself the following questions:

• Memory issues: Is it hard to remember recent events or information?
• Concentration problems: Do you struggle to focus or manage multiple tasks simultaneously?
• Language difficulties: Can you not find the right words or names, similar to the “tip of the tongue” phenomenon?
• Mental fatigue: Do you feel mentally exhausted without a clear reason?
• Difficulty with problem-solving and executive function: Is it harder to plan, organize and solve problems?

Symptoms like these can be an indication of chemo brain. It can begin early during your cancer journey or show up later in treatment or recovery.

“Just because someone starts chemotherapy doesn’t mean they’re going to notice cognitive or language changes,” Kress explained. “But depending on the duration of chemo or treatment, these symptoms might come up later.”

What Causes Chemo Brain?

The exact cause of chemo brain symptoms in cancer survivors is not entirely understood. Researchers believe it’s the result of many different factors. Chemo brain may occur when several factors interact in a person at the same time.

• Chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, such as radiation and immunotherapy
• Medications with neurotoxic effects
• Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety and depression
• Surgery and the physical impact of the cancer itself

Does Chemo Brain Ever Go Away?

Chemo brain symptoms can last shorter or longer in each person. Some might find their cognitive abilities return to normal within a few months. Others struggle with symptoms for several years. Factors such as the type and intensity of your cancer treatment, your overall health and the support you receive with therapies can influence your recovery process. “Symptoms may resolve fairly quickly if a patient uses therapy to help address their symptoms, but in some cases, it can last a lot longer, maybe years.”

How Can I Treat Chemo Brain?

While no single treatment works for chemo brain, several strategies can help manage your symptoms.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps patients develop strategies to cope with cognitive changes. It aims to improve mental health and manage the psychological impact of brain fog.
• Occupational and speech therapy: Occupational therapy and speech therapy can help patients improve their cognitive function and daily living skills.
• Memory and communication strategies: Tools to significantly improve cognitive function include calendars, reminders, small task steps and relaxation techniques.

Learn more about therapies to treat chemo brain and memory tips to help clear your brain fog.

When Should I Seek Help For Chemo Brain?

If you notice symptoms of chemo brain, talk with your healthcare provider. Hughes advised, “Advocate for your needs and make sure you’re speaking with your medical team to get the care you deserve.”

Don’t be ashamed of your symptoms; they are a common part of the cancer journey, and help is available. Remember, you’re not alone, and support is available.

Get The Care You Deserve

Many survivors of cancer report that brain fog improves over time, especially with appropriate treatment and support. Although it’s a challenging aspect of the cancer journey, you can implement effective strategies to improve your quality of life.

Franciscan Health offers the  Moving Beyond program designed to provide comprehensive support and resources for cancer survivors. This program helps you navigate the complexities of post-treatment life and cognitive challenges like chemo brain. Moving Beyond works to improve your overall well-being and quality of life through personalized care plans, educational resources and support groups.

You can also learn more about speech and occupational therapy and find a Franciscan Health location near you.