We have seen how communities can be a source of strength for those battling cancer, even after treatment has ended, and some may think the battle is over. Here is a list you can provide to someone who doesn't know what chemo brain is if you don't want to keep explaining it repeatedly.
The effects of chemo brain are quite real. Chemotherapy-induced cognitive dysfunction, sometimes known as "Chemo Brain" or "Chemo Fog," affects a significant percentage of cancer patients and survivors. This may start at any point throughout chemotherapy or even years after treatment has been completed, and it can go on forever.
It's important to note that patients who have had radiation treatment have reported experiencing similar symptoms to those of chemo brain. The cancer community has been vocal about the effects of this phenomenon, yet many of their loved ones and medical professionals still don't believe them.
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How Much Can it Affect Everyday Life?
You may improve your cognitive skills and deal with the effects of chemo brain by taking specific steps. The single most important thing you can do is to reach out for assistance when you need it. Help from family and friends with mundane jobs may reduce mental load and increase focus.
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Take note of any difficulties you have remembering. Document the occurrences of issues and the context in which they occurred in a journal. This documentation might be helpful when discussing these issues with your doctor.
You may be able to determine the cause of memory loss by observing the effects of various medications, the time of day, and your current environment.
Noting the times of day when the issues are most apparent might also help you be ready for them. This knowledge will allow you to avoid scheduling crucial interactions or meetings at certain times.
Don't dwell on how much your discomfort is affecting you. Just admitting that there is a problem is the first step toward solving it.
Many ill people have found that laughing off the things you can't change is a relief. And remember that you're considerably more attuned to your own difficulties than the average person.
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10 Things You Should Know
Anyone suffering chemo brain or caring for someone who is should keep these 10 points in mind. Whether a previous skeptic is reading this or a newcomer learning about it, I hope you find this encouraging.
It's up to you how you deal with those who insist "chemo brain doesn't exist," but it's probably best to include a subtle reminder to loved ones who may struggle to understand your new "quirks."
- Chemo brain is real, even if the doctor doesn't say so.
- It's not just an excuse; they don't want to forget things.
- No one is crazy; they are just being honest.
- They said it feels like you're wearing a cap on your head made of fog. And it's impossible to remove.
- Their least favorite words are now, "You already told me that." Sometimes it isn't realized, but it can be not very pleasant to hear that.
- Do not snap at them; they need your patience now.
- It's not funny; it's terrifying. You may laugh at first, but there is no joke anymore after a while.
- Chemo brain can last for years. You may have to find a way to get used to it.
- Being forgetful doesn't mean they've lost their intelligence.
- It is more frustrating for them than it is for you. It can be irritating to someone who has to keep repeating themselves but put yourself in that recovering patient's shoes.
