mental health

Dear ski_bob,

Thanks very much for getting in touch and welcome to our online community, I hope you find it supportive. My name is Jo and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. 

Sometimes, people who have had cancer treatments experience changes in memory, concentration and their ability to think clearly. This is often called cancer-related cognitive changes. Some people can experience these symptoms even when they have not had chemotherapy.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then we would recommend discussing them with your GP or hospital team as soon as possible. It can be helpful to keep a record, or diary of symptoms to show them examples of the things that are happening. It’s so difficult for the nurses on this platform to advise on specific symptoms in individual situations, as we are separate from the NHS and don’t have access to medical records. 

There is research ongoing looking into how cancer and it’s treatment causes cognitive impairment. Studies are also looking at finding possible treatments and improved ways of coping with these changes.

Best wishes,

Jo, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

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