By continuing to use our site, you consent to the processing of cookies, user data (location information, type and version of the OS, the type and version of the browser, the type of device and the resolution of its screen, the source of where the user came from, from which site or for what advertisement, language OS and Browser, which pages are opened and to which buttons the user presses, ip-address) for the purpose of site functioning, retargeting and statistical surveys and reviews. If you do not want your data to be processed, please leave the site.

The Voice of People With Breast Cancer

Education

Our Voices Blog

Tips for managing cancer-related brain fog

One of the most common complaints you hear from patients getting chemotherapy is brain fog. It's why it's most commonly known as "chemo brain". But what is it and why does it happen? And most importantly, how can it be managed?

Cancer-related brain fog is the feeling you get when your mind is hazy or cloudy. You can't quite concentrate like you used to, you have difficulty remember things that occurred recently, or multi-tasking has become more challenging. It's easy to be hard on yourself about these mental changes.

While it's most commonly known as a side effect of chemotherapy, many patients who don't get chemo complain of similar symptoms. There's no definitive explanation for what causes it. If you haven't received chemo it could be caused by other drugs you're taking, the cancer itself, fatigue, low blood count, stress or hormone changes, just to name a few.

It's important to give yourself time to heal. Over time, most patients find that their cognitive abilities improve. But for some, symptoms can continue long after treatment ends. Here are some ways to help you manage your brain fog:

  1. Use techniques to help you remember tasks and important dates such as timers, calendars, and post-it notes.  This can help you remember day-to-day activities and assist with any short-term memory loss.
  2. When you can't think of a word you want to use, the worst thing you can do is try to keep thinking about it.  If you go on to something completely different and take some relaxing breathes, the word you were trying to think of will pop back into your mind.
  3. Write things down. Try keeping a journal where you can write down important thoughts you'd like to remember.
  4. The more you challenge your brain, the better. Puzzles, crosswords and reading can help improve and strengthen your brain.
  5. Become more systematic in your daily routine. A regular routine, like taking your pills at the same time every day can help remember what you've done or still need to do.
  6. Take advantage of the more lucid times to organize and set up for the times when thinking is more difficult and less reliable.
  7. Get enough sleep and try to avoid looking at your phone right before bed.
  8. Try speech language therapy or occupational therapy with a specialty in chemo brain. Therapists specializing in cognitive improvements can teach you additional effective strategies to help improve your memory.
  9. Sign up for mindfulness meditation classes. Meditation can help you focus your thoughts and improve your attention.

Photo by Jakub Kriz on Unsplash

The views and experiences expressed through personal stories on Our Voices Blog are those of the authors and their lived experiences. They do not necessarily reflect the position of the Canadian Breast Cancer Network. The information provided has not been medically reviewed and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your healthcare team when considering your treatment plans and goals.