I went through 5 months of chemotherapy and experienced some unusual side effects. One of the strangest side effects I experienced, was Chemo brain. Chemo brain is a cognitive change that some patients experience after or during chemotherapy treatment. It can involve difficulties with memories, attention, concentration, and overall mental function. I have gathered some important ways to cope with debilitating chemo brain to help others who are going through the same experiences.
The causes of chemo brain are not fully understood. The functioning of the brain may be impacted by chemotherapy drugs negatively. I worked the entire time I was going through chemotherapy. It was difficult to get through each day but I persisted by using different ways to cope with debilitating chemo brain. Here are some great ways to cope with chemo brain.
The Best Ways to Cope with Debilitating Chemo Brain
Stay Organized
Use calendars, planners, or phone apps to keep track of doctors’ appointments, tasks, and important information. Establish routines and create reminders to help with memory and organization. I used a planner to write down all this information. Otherwise, I would forget appointments.
Prioritize and Simplify
Break down tasks into smaller manageable steps. Focus on one task at a time and avoid multitasking. Prioritize important activities and delegate or eliminate non-essential tasks when possible.
Seek Cognitive Exercises
Engage in activities that stimulate your brain. Some examples of these activities are puzzles, word games, reading, or learning new skills. These activities can help you maintain cognitive function and improve mental agility. I enjoyed word searches and puzzles during chemotherapy and the recovery days following my infusions.
Practice Good Sleep Habits
Prioritize quality sleep by maintaining a regular sleep schedule and creating a sleep-friendly environment. Fatigue can worsen cognitive difficulties. So make sure to get enough rest. Take naps if you need to.
Stay Physically Active
To help keep your brain active make sure to be physically active. Regular exercise has been shown to have a positive effect on cognitive function. Walking, yoga, or gentle strength training are great exercises to engage in while undergoing chemotherapy. I went to the gym at least once a week to work with a personal trainer. It helped me cope with chemo brain. On other days I walked the track or outside.
Manage Stress
Stress can make chemo brain worse. Explore stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness, or engage in activities that help you relax or unwind. I downloaded an app on my phone that has different exercise routines on it including meditation. I have done different classes on this app to help me relax and unwind.
Communicate with your Cancer Team
Let your cancer team know about your chemo brain symptoms. Not all cancer patients experience the same amount of chemo brain. Your cancer team can offer you guidance, support, and strategies tailored to your specific situation.
Seek Support
Joining support groups or connecting with others who have experienced chemo brain may help you find other coping strategies. Support groups can help provide you with a sense of understanding and validation. I joined a couple of different support groups on Facebook and they helped me feel validated. Many of us were going through the same things and it was nice to know that I was not alone.
Remember everyone’s experience with chemo brain is different. I hope these coping strategies will help you feel better. Please be patient with yourselves, chemo brain is only temporary.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
