Foggy thinking

Hi Jaybe,

Welcome to the online community. My name is Penelope and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists. 

I am sorry to hear of the symptoms that you are experiencing. It does sound frightening and frustrating for you. Treatment for breast cancer can cause many side effects such as tiredness, weakness and brain fog. Whilst your symptoms may be related to the cancer treatment any new, changing or worsening symptoms should be reported to your GP, NHS 111 or your hospital team today. This is important to assess your overall health and rule out any other causes of your symptoms.

Side effects of radiotherapy may include tiredness or fatigue as it is often called. Travelling daily for treatment can make fatigue worse. We have information on coping with fatigue which acknowledges how challenging it can be. Our information is also available in an audio book. Some people find it easier to listen to the information in small chunks rather than trying to read or listen to it all at once. Our information on fatigue can also be helpful to share with family and friends to help them understand how you may be feeling.

It is important to speak to a local healthcare professional to rule out other causes, but the brain fog that you mentioned may also be related to your tiredness. Breast Cancer Now have information on cognitive impairment. This is also known as ‘brain fog’. It is sometimes called ‘chemo brain’ but it can affect people even if they have not had chemotherapy. Whilst brain fog usually improves over time many people find it helpful to use strategies to help them cope. These could be simple things like using a diary or electronic calendar. Prioritising well being through rest, relaxation and other activities such as counselling may also be beneficial.

I am sorry to hear that your confidence has been affected by how you are feeling. This is not unusual after cancer treatment. Try not to expect too much of yourself too soon. Recovery is a gradual process, and your treatment did not finish very long ago. You can read more about this in our information beginning to recover.

If you have completed your treatment altogether you may find support in our life after cancer forum. It is a space to discuss things like the physical and emotional effects of cancer with people who may be experiencing similar feelings.

Best wishes for your ongoing recovery,  

Penelope, 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. 

Ref PN/BG