Changes in Memory, Thinking, and Focus (Chemo Brain)

Treatment for thinking changes

There is no one cure for the way cancer and cancer treatment cause thinking changes. Though, there are some things you can do to help with changes in thinking.

• Exercise and regular physical activity is good for your brain. It can improve your thinking and focus. It can also help you deal with stress and make you feel more alert and less tired.
• Meditation can help you relax, clear your mind, and focus on the present.
• Movement therapy, such as yoga, tai chi, or qi gong might improve your focus and thinking.
• Focused rehabilitation, called cognitive rehab, can help improve focus, thinking, and memory. This type of treatment might also help you organize your usual activities or improve your job skills.

Treating problems that can make symptoms worse, such poor sleep, stress, or pain, will help the most. Talk to your cancer care team about these and other options that may help you manage and cope with changes in thinking.

Tips to manage changes in memory, thinking, and focus

Use tools, like planners, brain exercises, and routines, to help you think clearly and remember better. Small tricks can make a big difference. Here are some ideas for ways to cope with these changes.

• Use a daily planner, notebook, notes, or your smartphone for reminders. Keep track of appointments, task lists, important dates, phone numbers and addresses, and meeting notes. You might even want to write down movies you’d like to see or books you’d like to read.
• Set up routines and follow them. Try to follow the same daily schedule.
• Choose one place to keep items that often get lost. Put items like your keys or the remote in their place after you use them.
• Try to focus on one thing at a time. Avoid splitting your attention. When you multitask, it is easier to lose focus and make mistakes.
• Do your hardest tasks when you have the most energy. Your medicines, the time of day, and where you are can all affect your memory. A record of these can help you know the best times to plan important tasks.
• Exercise your brain. Do puzzles, solve word games, paint pictures, play an instrument, or learn a new hobby.
• Try to get enough rest and sleep. Most adults need at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Avoid naps late in the day that could affect your sleep schedule.
• Ask for help when you need it. Ask friends and loved ones to help with daily tasks. This can cut down on distractions and help you save mental energy.
• Limit alcohol. Drinking alcohol can affect your sleep and memory.
• Track your memory problems. Keep a diary or log of when you notice problems and what you were doing at the time.

Tell others what is happening

Remember, you probably notice any changes in thinking or memory much more than others do. It might help to talk to your family, friends, and cancer care team about any changes you experience.

A change in thinking, memory, or focus is a side effect you can learn to manage. Even if they can’t see it, your family and friends can help. They can keep track of your plans, remind you of details, or help you stay focused. Their support and understanding and help can let you relax and make it easier for you to focus and process information.

When to talk with your doctor or cancer care team

Let your cancer care team know if you have any changes in your memory, thinking, or focus. You might notice these changes soon after diagnosis, during treatment, or after treatment ends. Try to explain:

• What you are feeling
• The times of day you notice these changes the most
• What makes it better or worse
• How these changes affect your daily life
• Other related changes, such as fatigue, trouble sleeping, pain, or stress

Keeping a diary or log can help you track when you have changes in thinking and what seems to affect them. Take your diary or log with you when you see your cancer care team.

Other ways to make the most of your healthcare visit:

• Write down your questions and take them with you. This will help you remember what you wanted to ask.
• Bring a list of all the medicines you take. Make a medication list. Include any prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements.
• Take a friend or family member with you. Ask this person to take notes. They can also help you remember what you want to ask. Your friend or relative can also describe any changes they’ve seen.

Tell your cancer care team how much of a problem these changes are causing for you. Are they keeping you from what you want to do? From going to school or work? Are you having trouble taking care of your family? Are you able to take care of yourself?

Also let your cancer care team know if you are feeling anxious or depressed due to the changes in thinking. Talking to a mental health professional might help you deal with these feelings.

Your team will look for causes that can be fixed, like poor sleep, thyroid levels, or nutrition. You might also want to ask about focused rehabilitation to help you manage specific changes in focus, thinking, and memory.