U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Alexander Martinez

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Some of the most common symptoms experienced by cancer patients are memory problems, difficulties with multitasking, and reduced attention and concentration.

Historically, cancer patients with these symptoms were often diagnosed with depression. Research over the past decade has revealed that many cancer patients experience these symptoms as a consequence of specific damage to the brain caused by either their tumor or their treatment.

While radiation to the brain has long been linked to causing cognitive difficulties, the effects of chemotherapy on brain structure and function have only recently been discovered.

We now know that the majority of patients treated for cancer, including breast, lung, colon and many other types, experience difficulties with memory, multitasking, cognitive processing speed, attention and concentration. The good news is that such symptoms may slowly improve over time in most patients.

If you or someone you care for is having problems with memory or cognitive function following cancer treatment, it is important to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to rule out other conditions that can mimic certain side effects from chemotherapy.

For example, endocrine disorders (such as thyroid abnormalities), vitamin deficiencies, sleep deprivation and depression should all be ruled out (or treated), as these conditions can cause changes in memory and slowed thinking.

Extensive research over the past decade has identified how chemotherapy targets brain structure and function as an unwanted side effect of cancer therapy. Those efforts have also started to shed light on the mechanisms that enhance brain regeneration and expedite recovery from brain injury, previously thought to be impossible.

While various therapeutic interventions currently remain in clinical testing, there are a number of lifestyle actions that have been found to be effective:

Regular physical exercise

Cardiovascular exercise is one of the strongest drivers of brain repair after injury, stimulating the growth of new neurons, facilitating connections between brain cells and enhancing overall cognitive resilience.

Sufficient restorative sleep

Chronic sleep deprivation damages brain cells, prevents brain regeneration, causes daytime fatigue, and reduces cognitive function. Poor sleep also impairs the basic mechanism that eliminates toxic waste in the brain — a process that primarily happens during sleep.

Simple behavioral changes to improve sleep hygiene include avoiding neurostimulants prior to bedtime (coffee, chocolate, beverages with high sugar content, etc.) and minimizing exposure to electronic devices in your bedroom. Meditation and various relaxation techniques can also help improve sleep.

Good nutrition

A diet rich in antioxidants can be helpful in minimizing cancer therapy-related damage to brain cells and unwanted cognitive side effects from cancer therapy. Therefore, enriching your diet with fruits and vegetables, along with weight loss (if you are overweight or obese), are highly recommended strategies.

While a natural supply of antioxidants and vitamins from food is best, some people who are unable to maintain a well-balanced diet may benefit from multivitamin supplementation.

Stress-reducing activities

Brain plasticity and nervous system regeneration can be enhanced when all senses are activated, particularly through activities that lead to new experiences and sensations (“environmental enrichment”).

Engaging in new activities, learning a different skill, or traveling can be of tremendous value. In addition, many patients find that engaging in spiritual practices can have a positive effect on healing.

Medications may help

Medications such as neurostimulants and anti-aging drugs may be used in conjunction with lifestyle interventions to improve memory and cognition after cancer treatments. Speak with your doctor about these options.

New research suggests there may be a connection between the immune system, the bone marrow and the brain, highlighting new avenues for future pharmacological and biological therapies that may enhance brain function after injury and delay the process of brain aging.

New rehab programs

A thorough neurological evaluation can be helpful in identifying areas of brain functioning that can be improved with specialized neurocognitive rehabilitation programs. Many patients benefit from this type of rehab as part of their cancer treatment.

Collectively, while symptoms of brain dysfunction are common in cancer patients, there are several interventions that can help with recovery and enhance healing. Research in this area remains in its infancy, but the curtain has been lifted.

There are promising pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapeutic interventions on the horizon, and there are many lifestyle changes you can start today.

Jorg Dietrich, M.D., Ph.D., is a contributor to Harvard Health Publications.

© 2020 by Harvard University