Cognitive changes
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Some people can experience problems with cognition after a cancer diagnosis and during treatment.
Cognition refers to things like memory, the way we think and process information, and planning and organisation of tasks and daily activities.
Many people describe these changes as “brain fog” or “chemo brain”, although these changes are not only linked with chemotherapy.
While these symptoms are often temporary, they can have a big impact on daily life, but there are some things that can help.
What can cause cognitive changes?
Cognitive changes can happen for many reasons, including:
- The cancer itself
- Cancer treatments such as Systemic anti-cancer therapies (SACT) and radiotherapy
- Infection
- Hormonal changes, such as being post-menopausal (see the Menopause page for more information)
- Fatigue (see the Fatigue page for further information)
- Stress and anxiety (see the Emotional and Psychological Wellbeing page for further information)
- Poor sleep (see the Sleep page for further information)
Possible symptoms of cognitive changes
Everyone experiences cognitive changes differently, but common symptoms include:
- Difficulty remembering things
- Poor concentration
- Being easily distracted
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Feeling slower to process thoughts and information
- Difficulty making decisions
- Finding it harder to multitask
- Taking longer to plan, organise and finish tasks
- Difficulty learning new things
- Struggling to remember names, dates or events
- Finding it hard to find the right word in conversation
Tips for Managing cognitive changes
Talk to your team as they will be able to help you find the support to manage these symptoms
- Get support with managing other symptoms managing symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety and sleep difficulties can also improve cognitive symptoms.
- Keep active. Regular physical activity can help improve concentration and cognition (see the Physical Activity page for further information).
- Use helpful aids. Tools such as diaries, calendars, lists, notebook, phone apps or reminders can make organising your day and remembering tasks easier.
- Simplify tasks. Break tasks into smaller chunks so they feel more manageable.
- Do harder tasks when you have the most energy. Save the easier tasks for when you feel more tired.
- Avoid multitasking. Doing one thing at a time can be less overwhelming.
- Keep a routine. Sticking to a regular daily routine can make it easier to remember what you are doing each day
- Tidy and organise your environment. Keep everyday items, such as keys and remotes, in the same place and put items back in their place once you have used them.
- Exercise your brain. Activities like puzzles, word games or crosswords can help keep your mind active.
- Do things you enjoy. This can boost your mood and will also help with focus. We often concentrate better on things we find enjoyable.
Resources
Further information can be found on the following websites:
Macmillan website
Cognitive changes (chemo brain) | Macmillan Cancer Support
Cancer Research UK website
Chemo brain | Cancer in general | Cancer Research UK
Breast Cancer Now
Cognitive impairment (chemo brain) | Breast Cancer Now