The most typical symptoms that cancer patients experience are memory problems, difficulties in multitasking, and lack of attention and concentration. Historically, cancer patients with these symptoms were often diagnosed with depression. Research over the past decade has shown that many cancer patients experience symptoms that result from specific brain damage attributable to their tumors or their treatments.
Although radiation to the brain has long been related to causing cognitive difficulties, the results of chemotherapy on brain structure and performance have only recently been discovered. We now know that nearly all of patients treated for cancer, including breast, lung, colon, and plenty of other kinds of cancer, experience difficulties with memory, multitasking, cognitive processing speed, attention, and concentration because of this of their treatment. she does. The excellent news is that these symptoms can regularly improve over time in most patients.
There are treatment strategies to assist patients recuperate more quickly.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing memory or considering problems after cancer treatment, it is vital to have a comprehensive medical evaluation to rule out other conditions that could be a few of the uncomfortable side effects of chemotherapy. Can mimic effects. For example, endocrine disorders (corresponding to thyroid abnormalities), vitamin deficiencies, sleep deprivation, or depression should all be ruled out (or treated), as these conditions can alter memory and slow considering. are
Extensive research over the past decade has identified how chemotherapy targets brain structure and performance as an unwanted side effect of cancer therapy. These efforts are also starting to make clear the mechanisms that enhance brain regeneration and speed up recovery from brain injury, previously regarded as unimaginable. Although various treatment interventions are currently under clinical testing, there are numerous lifestyle measures which were found to be effective.
- Regular physical exertion. Cardiovascular exercise is one among the strongest drivers of brain repair after injury, stimulating the expansion of latest neurons, facilitating connections between brain cells, and increasing overall cognitive flexibility.
- Adequate restorative sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation damages brain cells, inhibits brain regeneration, causes daytime fatigue, and reduces cognitive function. Poor sleep also affects the brain's basic detoxing mechanisms—a process that happens primarily during sleep. Simple behavioral changes to enhance sleep hygiene include avoiding neurostimulants before bed (coffee, chocolate, high-sugar drinks, etc.), and reducing exposure to electronic devices in your bedroom. Is. Meditation and various rest techniques also can help improve sleep.
- Good nutrition. A weight loss program wealthy in antioxidants may help reduce cancer treatment-related damage to brain cells and reduce the unwanted cognitive uncomfortable side effects of cancer treatment. Therefore, weight reduction, in addition to improving your weight loss program with vegetables and fruit (should you are chubby or obese), are highly really useful strategies. Although a natural supply of antioxidants and vitamins from food is best, some people who find themselves unable to keep up a well-balanced weight loss program may profit from multivitamin supplementation.
- Engaging in positive and stress-reducing activities. Brain plasticity and nervous system regeneration might be enhanced when all of the senses are stimulated, especially through activities that result in latest experiences and sensations (“environmental enrichment”). Engaging in latest activities, learning a brand new skill, or traveling might be of great value. In addition, many patients find that engaging in spiritual practices can have a positive effect on healing.
Certain medications can enhance brain function and reduce cognitive symptoms.
Neurostimulants and antiaging drugs might be used together with lifestyle interventions to enhance memory and cognition after cancer treatment. Talk to your doctor about these options.
New research suggests that there could also be a connection between the immune system, bone marrow and brain, highlighting latest avenues for future pharmacological and biological treatments that may enhance brain function after injury and improve brain aging. May delay the expansion process.
Cancer prevention programs at many hospitals can offer help.
An intensive neurological evaluation can assist discover areas of brain functioning that might be improved with specialized neurocognitive rehabilitation programs. Many patients profit from any such rehabilitation as a part of their cancer treatment.
Overall, while symptoms of mental impairment are common in cancer patients, there are several interventions that might be considered to support recovery and enhance healing. Research on this area remains to be in its early stages however the veil has been lifted. There are promising pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment interventions on the horizon, and plenty of lifestyle changes you’ll be able to start today.
references
Neurological correlates of chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment. The cortexMay 2014.
Assessment and management of cognitive changes in cancer patients. CancerJune 15, 2019.
Pharmacologic management of cognitive impairment induced by cancer treatment. Lancet OncologyFebruary 2019.
Sleep drives metabolite clearance from the adult brain.. science18 October 2013.
Bone marrow drives central nervous system regeneration after radiation injury.. Journal of Clinical InvestigationJune 1, 2018.