Chemo Brain

Posted by Julie at 10/19/2008 6:14 PM
Categories: uncategorized


Being back to work full-time has been great for my mood.  But, my mind is having trouble keeping up.  I seem to have the symptoms of "Chemo Brain."

  • Reduced memory capability, both verbal and visual (“What’s your name again?”)
  • Lack of focused attention or ability to process information (must read a paragraph several times to get the meaning)
  • Learning new things takes longer (even though you’re still as smart as before)
  • Multitasking is overwhelming (can’t talk on the phone and cook dinner at the same time)
  • Easily distracted (“Why did I come in this room?”)
  • Missing key points in discussion (“Please repeat what you just said”)
  • Inability to find right word in conversations (You can’t just say “duh”)
  • More effort required for usual tasks (daily activities leave you very fatigued)

    • Some of you may be saying, "so what's new?"  ha ha.  But, really, it is difficult to do psychotherapy and assessment activities when you can't think right.   Seems like it is getting better day by day, so I hope it goes away quickly.  The "experts" say, it can take up to a year to get over it.  It is a "use it or lose it" type of thing, so I am glad I have a challenging job to keep my mind moving.  Exercise helps stimulate the brain, too, so I need to incorporate a walking plan into my schedule. 

    If you want to read more on the cognitive impairments of chemo brain, click here:
    http://www.womenandcancermag.com/SupportiveCare.aspx?DocumentId=42579

     

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    • 10/19/2008 6:35 PM mariam wrote:
      this too shall pass
      Reply to this
      1. 10/19/2008 7:57 PM Julie wrote:
        huh?  What?


        Reply to this
    • 10/19/2008 7:41 PM Brian Martin wrote:
      Yeah but I have all those symtoms all the time so what's my excuse?
      Reply to this
    • 10/19/2008 11:21 PM Deborah wrote:
      Sounds like good old Menopause Cotton Head Syndrome I have the same cognitive issues and I have not had Chemo More B12 One day at a time.
      Reply to this
      1. 10/19/2008 11:28 PM Julie wrote:
        Hey, anyone who feels they have these same issues, you can help yourself cope by incorporating these suggestions into your daily routine:
        • Try relaxation training to help focus your attention.
        • Write in a journal or diary to see what influences your memory problems.
        • Set a routine or schedule that you follow consistently every day.
        • Ride it out—settle in for the day and watch television or funny movies.
        • Exercise; aerobic exercise helps your mood and increases alertness.
        • Alter your work environment or expectations: simplify.
        • Learn what your cognitive strengths are and capitalize on those. (What time of day is best for tackling tasks?)
        • Compensate for weaknesses by using external memory aids (daily planner, notes, maps, and reminder phone calls).
        • Discuss frustrations about slower moments with friends and family.

        I think Debbie's idea of more B12 sounds good, too!


        Reply to this
    • 10/20/2008 1:17 PM Garth Mundle Ottawa wrote:
      Hi Julie, We are home from the "Peace and Reconciliation "Trip to Ireland and connecting again with your blog.
      Chemo brain sounds similar to what some of us over the big 70 mark experience. You will recover those functions with time but unlikely we will though I find working on the computer helps to keep the neurons firing and certainly exercise does.Saw an article recently that for seniors working the internet is good for the brain.Perhaps the frustration itself acts as stimulant I can't beleve some of the people and things for which I draw a blank at the most inopportune moments.Visited for half a day recently thinking the people were someone other than who they are. Recovered just as they were leaving.
      Cheers, Garth
      Reply to this
      1. 10/20/2008 3:57 PM Julie wrote:
        I can really relate!  I think I'll definitely be getting me a PDA or a Blackberry to keep track of what I should be doing.
        Reply to this
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