Chemotherapy and other breast cancer treatments can cause problems with things like memory, attention, and concentration. This is often called cognitive impairment or “chemo brain.” The good news is that there are steps you can take to help improve your memory and make it easier to think clearly.
Why does breast cancer treatment affect my memory and ability to focus?
Doctors aren’t exactly sure why chemotherapy and other cancer treatments can make it harder to remember things or think clearly. But it’s possible that your cancer treatment is only part of the reason for any memory or thinking problems you’re having. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression related to having breast cancer can also affect your memory and your ability to focus.
The result is that you may have trouble doing things like multitasking, learning new information, or remembering names and dates.
Find support
Remember that you’re not alone! Many people living with breast cancer have problems focusing and remembering things—and it may help you to talk with people who are experiencing the same things as you. Ask your doctor to connect you to support groups in your area, or check out the American Cancer Society’s programs for people with cancer.
How can I improve my memory and ability to focus?
For most people with breast cancer, problems thinking clearly go away over time. But you can take these steps to help improve your memory and ability to focus now:
- Get physical activity. Getting active is good for your brain. It can help you feel less stressed and tired — and more alert. Even small amounts of physical activity can make a difference. Consider walking or yoga, and keep in mind that things like gardening and doing chores around the house count as physical activity, too.
- Eat healthy. Try to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, which have nutrients that help keep your brain healthy. If you’re worried that you’re not eating enough healthy foods, ask your doctor about taking vitamins.
- Try to get enough sleep. Do your best to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. If you’ve been having trouble falling asleep, you may want to try a calming bedtime routine. For example, take a bath, listen to soft music, and read a book. It’s also a good idea to avoid foods and drinks with caffeine or sugar before bedtime.
- Manage your stress. When you’re less stressed, you may find it easier to think clearly. Try meditating at home, or ask your doctor about mindfulness-based therapy. Taking time to do activities you enjoy—like watching movies or playing games—can help lower your stress levels, too.
Are there treatments for memory and thinking problems?
There’s no medicine approved to treat memory and thinking problems related to breast cancer, but sometimes doctors prescribe medicines that are meant to treat other conditions. It’s not clear how well these medicines work for people with breast cancer.
Your doctor may also recommend cognitive rehabilitation. This type of treatment may involve teaching you how the brain works, having you do tasks on a computer that “train” your brain, and giving you methods to stay organized.
Stay organized to manage memory problems
Try taking these steps to help make sure you don’t have to rely on your memory:
- Use a planner to keep track of your daily schedule—including appointments and other important dates
- Create a to-do list or set up smartphone reminders about tasks you need to get done
- Put items that are easy to lose—like car keys—in the same place every time you finish using them
Talk with your doctor if you need more help managing memory or thinking problems—especially if they’re causing trouble at work or in your daily life. Your doctor can help make sure you get the help you need.
