Chemo Brain
Question:
Dear OncoLink "Ask The Experts,"
I have had problems paying attention and remembering things. I have heard the term "chemobrain", but I dont know what to do about it. Some people say it is real. Some people say it is not. Anyway, I have sure felt it. Any recommendations on things that can help?
Answer:
Carolyn Vachani RN, MSN, AOCN, OncoLink's Nurse Educator, responds:
Chemobrain is absolutely real! Studies have found conflicting results, but ask any survivor and they will tell you it is real. I have a few good references for you:
An article called Living with ChemoBrain and a book dealing with the topic called Your Brain After Chemo.
There is not a whole lot of research into chemobrain yet, but I expect to see much more in the coming years. Researchers are looking at cognitive rehab programs, which were traditionally used for stroke patients, brain �exercise�, medications and more.
This question and answer was part of the OncoLink Brown Bag Chat Series, Understanding Breast Cancer Supportive Care Issues View the entire transcript.
