Your Brain On Your Brain On... Chemotherapy
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Dec 4, 2025 Dr. Liz O'Riordan, a retired breast surgeon and three-time survivor, along with oncology dietitian Nicole Andrews, dive deep into the effects of chemotherapy on cognition. They discuss 'chemo brain'—the real impact of cognitive fog and emotional challenges faced during treatment. Liz shares her personal journey and adaptations, while Nicole highlights the importance of nutrition in recovery. They debunk myths around diets, emphasize self-advocacy, and offer practical strategies for maintaining cognitive clarity and emotional well-being during and after treatment.
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Chemo Brain Is Multi‑Factorial
- Chemotherapy-related cognitive problems are multifactorial, not solely caused by chemo itself.
- Inflammation, surgery, anesthesia, hormones, stress, and sleep disruption all interact to impair cognition.
Brain Adapts, Often Recovers
- Imaging shows modest structural changes but clearer functional connectivity shifts under cognitive load.
- Many changes resolve over time thanks to neuroplasticity and recovery processes.
Surgeon Turned Patient
- Liz O'Riordan found a breast lump at 40 and immediately knew her treatment path as a surgeon.
- She underwent chemo, mastectomy, radiation and hormone blockers and took about a year to recover before returning to work.
