Many AML patients experience a side effect that's commonly known as "chemo brain". Throughtout this article, we will discuss what chemo brain is, what the symptoms and solutions are, and what might cause this side effect in AML patients.
Chemo brain, also known as chemo fog or cancer-related cognitive impairment, is a term used to describe a range of cognitive changes that some cancer patients experience during or after cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy.
While it can affect individuals with various types of cancer, including AML, it is not limited to a specific cancer type.
Chemo brain is characterized by a variety of cognitive symptoms, which may include:
The exact cause of chemo brain is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of factors, including the direct effects of chemotherapy drugs on the brain, as well as factors like inflammation, hormonal changes, and stress associated with cancer and its treatment.
It's important to note that not all cancer patients experience chemo brain, and the severity and duration of these cognitive changes can vary widely from person to person.
Additionally, chemo brain may improve or resolve over time in some cases, while others may experience long-lasting cognitive difficulties.
Managing chemo brain typically involves addressing the specific cognitive challenges the patient faces.
Strategies may include cognitive rehabilitation therapy, exercise, stress reduction techniques, and medications in some cases.
Patients are encouraged to communicate their cognitive symptoms with their healthcare team so that appropriate support and interventions can be provided to help improve their quality of life during and after cancer treatment.
Several crowd-sourced solutions in HealthTree's Side Effect Solutions tool can help you find remedies for managing chemo brain. You can also find what remedies did not work for others so you don't waste time trying multiple things!
Are you about solutions to other side effects? Check here: Side Effect Solutions
Talk to someone who understands your myeloma journey: HealthTree Coach Program
Many AML patients experience a side effect that's commonly known as "chemo brain". Throughtout this article, we will discuss what chemo brain is, what the symptoms and solutions are, and what might cause this side effect in AML patients.
Chemo brain, also known as chemo fog or cancer-related cognitive impairment, is a term used to describe a range of cognitive changes that some cancer patients experience during or after cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy.
While it can affect individuals with various types of cancer, including AML, it is not limited to a specific cancer type.
Chemo brain is characterized by a variety of cognitive symptoms, which may include:
The exact cause of chemo brain is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of factors, including the direct effects of chemotherapy drugs on the brain, as well as factors like inflammation, hormonal changes, and stress associated with cancer and its treatment.
It's important to note that not all cancer patients experience chemo brain, and the severity and duration of these cognitive changes can vary widely from person to person.
Additionally, chemo brain may improve or resolve over time in some cases, while others may experience long-lasting cognitive difficulties.
Managing chemo brain typically involves addressing the specific cognitive challenges the patient faces.
Strategies may include cognitive rehabilitation therapy, exercise, stress reduction techniques, and medications in some cases.
Patients are encouraged to communicate their cognitive symptoms with their healthcare team so that appropriate support and interventions can be provided to help improve their quality of life during and after cancer treatment.
Several crowd-sourced solutions in HealthTree's Side Effect Solutions tool can help you find remedies for managing chemo brain. You can also find what remedies did not work for others so you don't waste time trying multiple things!
Are you about solutions to other side effects? Check here: Side Effect Solutions
Talk to someone who understands your myeloma journey: HealthTree Coach Program
about the author
Audrey Burton-Bethke
Audrey joined the HealthTree Foundation as a Community Manager in 2020 after previously working in the nonprofit field for 4 years as a director of Fundraising and Development. She graduated from BYU with a major in Spanish and Nonprofit Management. Audrey is passionate about serving others, loves learning, and enjoys a nice mug of hot chocolate no matter the weather.
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