Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a common side of many, but not all, chemotherapy drugs. The drugs affect cells that are growing quickly. Hair is lost within a few days or weeks after chemotherapy starts and usually grows back once you finish chemotherapy.
- Look Good Feel Better
- A variety of in-person and online workshops, as well as resources for cancer support.
- Hair Loss
- Losing your hair may feel difficult and challenging. Look Good Feel Better provides hair alternative solutions to meet this challenge.
- Hair Care
Thinning hair
If you notice your hair thinning:
- Avoid hair sprays or alcohol based hair products
- Avoid coloring your hair
- Use a gentle, hydrating shampoo and conditioner
- Consider cutting your hair shorter than you usually would (this helps the hair look thicker and does not put stress on the already weak hair follicles
- Sleep using a satin pillow case
Adapted from Look Good Feel Better
Cognitive function refers to the abilities for speaking, thinking, your awareness, decisions, learning, attention, memory, organizing or problem solving.
Problems with your cognitive function can affect your emotional well being and quality of life.
You may have problems at work, school or with daily activities.
Cancer or its treatment can affect cognitive function.
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Chemo brain/chemo fog
Chemotherapy may cause problems with the ability to pay attention, to remember or to problem solve. High doses of chemotherapy and/or chemotherapy given for a long time are more likely to cause cognitive problems.
Cognitive problems caused by cancer or its treatment may go away after treatment is finished or continue for a long time or become permanent.
There are many strategies and tools to cope with chemo brain and chemo fog such as recording your symptoms identify if your memory is worse when you are tired or hungry, use a calendar to organize to keep track of records, appointments, activities, etc.
Taking care of yourself with physical activity that can help you stay mentally alert, get plenty of rest, reduce stress, practice yoga or meditation to help you relax and think clearer.
Also, speak with your caregivers and health care providers regarding how you are feeling.
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