Causes and risk factors:
The use of chemotherapy and radiation therapy causes cognitive changes, however the exact cause as why this takes place is still not clear research is still going on in this field. Everyone who take chemo and radiation therapy do not suffer from these changes in memory and thinking. Certain risk factors have been put forth .It is more commonly seen in brain cancer patients. Cancer therapy administered at the central nervous system or cancer at very young age or exposure to high quantity of chemo and radiation increases the risk of developing chemo brain. Stress, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, hormonal changes, low blood counts, fatigue etc also contribute to the causation. Nutritional deficiencies, certain diseases like diabetes, blood pressure, infections or other medications used in treatment of cancer.
Clinical presentations:
In some individuals the complaints are seen for short term, while in others they long lasting. An individual suffering from chemo brain will find difficulty in remembering things, memory becomes weak, and their thinking capacity is hampered. Concentration becomes difficulty. They take long time to remember anything or any name, at time the use wrong words for a particular object. Multitasking becomes a difficult job for them. Confusion, fatigue, irritability, mood changes and depression can also be seen. Carrying out day to day activities can be difficult leading to difficulty in coping up at home and at work place. One may tend to forget small things like closing of doors and windows or fail to remember anybody’s name.
Diagnosis and investigations:
Diagnosis can be made on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and on the basis of complete psychiatric evaluation. Reviewing of the history is the most essential step. All the details are obtained from the family and friends. History of previous cancer treatment is reviewed. Close observation in such cases is essential. Investigations like ECG, Chest X-ray and other blood tests can be advised if required.
Treatment:
There is no specific treatment for chemo brain. In some cases treating the underlying cause is sufficient. Counseling and interpersonal therapy is the main line of treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy has found to be effective in such cases. Support and care by family and friends will help the patient to cope up with the complaints. Indulgence in positive recreational activity, meditation are effective. If required medications are prescribed.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating chemo brain. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms.
