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Chemobrain

Chemobrain is a lack of concentration many patients experience after cancer treatment

Cancer survivors often use the word chemobrain to describe a lack of concentration and mental clarity. Researchers are still working to understand whether this phenomenon, also called Chemotherapy-Induced Cognitive Impairment (CICI), is caused by treatment, the general stress and anxiety related to a cancer diagnosis or other factors.

Symptoms of cognitive impairment can include forgetfulness, difficulty with memory, trouble finding words, difficulty multi-tasking and reduced ability to concentrate. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, report them to your healthcare provider.

Thinking and memory problems like these can be scary. Fortunately, they are generally temporary. Cognitive abilities usually rebound within a year or two after chemotherapy treatment ends.

Chemobrain Management Strategies

No standard treatment has been developed for cancer-related memory problems. Because symptoms and severity differ from person to person, your doctor can work with you to develop an individualized approach to coping.

Bernadine Cimprich, U-M associate professor emerita of nursing, provides these tips to help reduce fatigue and cope more effectively with chemo brain:

  • Focus on the priorities that are most important to you. Delegate tasks or leave other things undone.
  • When you approach a task that requires a lot of mental energy, break it down into smaller goals.
  • Don’t try to multitask, especially in situations where it could be dangerous, for example, when driving or while cooking.
  • Schedule your day in advance. Having a structure will help you complete tasks.
  • Rely on family and friends to help you. If you’re having trouble making simple decisions, like meal planning, ask if they would help with decision-making and shopping.
  • Use a buddy system. For situations where you are concerned that you may be making a mistake, ask someone to look over your work. If you need to read something complex, ask someone to talk it over with you to make sure you fully understand.