Recent research has shown that chemo can also impact the thinking functions of the brain, known as cognitive functioning, for up to 10 years after treatment. This happens in a small number of patients and is often worse with larger doses of chemo. Some of the brain’s activities that are affected are concentration, memory, comprehension (understanding), and reasoning. The changes that were found in patients were subtle, but the people who have problems notice the differences in their thinking.

Patients who have had chemo and have cognitive impairment often call this experience chemo brain or chemo-fog. Researchers are not sure exactly why chemo affects the brain in this way or exactly how much chemo (or in what combinations) it takes to cause a problem.

Researchers are currently studying the problem. They are looking for more information to help prevent and treat cognitive impairment for chemotherapy patients. Just being aware that problems with thinking can happen may help patients and their family members feel less isolated and alone.

If you have problems with thinking that interfere with your daily life, there are memory retraining exercises and programs, as well as other treatments, that may help you retain or improve your memory and problem-solving abilities. You can also learn strategies that may help you cope with the loss of cognitive function. Ask your doctor if he or she can recommend a health professional who can help. You can get more information in our document Chemo Brain.

Last Medical Review: 08/28/2008
Last Revised: 09/11/2008