What is Chemo Brain?

The webpage Oncology Nurse Advisor, published last March 14, 2018, an article about Managing Chemo Brain in Pediatric Survivors of Childhood Cancer that we believe it’s common for kids undergoing chemo.

But…

What is Chemo brain?

Chemo brain is a common term used by cancer survivors to describe thinking and memory problems that can occur after cancer treatment. Chemo brain can also be called chemo fog, chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment or cognitive dysfunction. ¹

What are the symptoms of chemo brain?

Chemo brain is characterized by forgetting things, trouble concentrating, short attention spam, taking longer to finish things. ²

Most of the times the effects only last a short time. Children under three are considered most at risk to have long-term effects due to rapid ongoing myelination processes that can in some cases go on until seven years of age.

What can you do?

• Try memory games.
• Keep the mind active.
• Slowly implement learning.
• Meet schoolteachers, counselors, and schools staff prior reintroducing the child. back to school.
• Think of a one on one aid or assistant if needed.
• Psychology testing.

Examples of strategies that are often helpful for children and teens with educational problems related to cancer treatment include:

• Seating near the front of the classroom
• Use of tape-recorded textbooks and lectures
• Extra help with math, spelling, reading and organizational skills

But overall be patient and compassionate to your child.

To read more about it click here

If you would like to provide relevant information or recommendations for this page contact us. 

References:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chemo-brain/symptoms-causes/syc-203510602.
2. https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/physical-side-effects/changes-in-mood-or-thinking/chemo-brain.html
3. https://www.oncologynurseadvisor.com/side-effect-management/chemo-brain-in-pediatric-cancer-survivors/article/751108/2/
4. https://curesearch.org/Learning-Problems-During-or-After-Treatment