DEAR DOCTORS: I had chemotherapy for breast cancer. It was successful and I'm getting my strength back, but I'm having trouble with thinking and memory. My doctor calls it "chemo brain" and says it will get better. Why is this happening? How long is it going to last?
DEAR READER: You're far from alone in experiencing "chemo brain", which is sometimes also called "chemo fog". The medical term is chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment, or CRCI. These all refer to the often debilitating problems with memory, thinking and concentration that can rise during and after cancer treatment. The terminology singles out chemotherapy, but it's not the only potential trigger. Patients who undergo radiation treatment and hormone therapies can experience a loss of cognitive function as well.
