| Nervous System | ||
| Intracranial Pressure | May result from radiation edema in central nervous system. | Monitor neurologic status.
May be controlled with corticosteroids. |
| Peripheral Neuropathy | Paresthesias, arelexia, skeletal muscle weakness, and smooth muscle dysfunction can occur as a side effect of plant alkaloids, taxanes, and cisplatin | Monitor for these manifestations in patients on these drugs.
Consider temporary chemotherapy dose interruption or reduction until symptoms improve. Anti-seizure drugs (e.g., gabapentin [Neurontin]) may be considered. |
| Cognitive Changes (“chemo brain”) | Occur during and after treatment (especially with chemotherapy).
Difficulties in concentration, memory lapses, trouble remembering details, taking longer to finish tasks. May happen quickly and last a short time. Sometimes people have mild long-term effects |
Teach patients to do the following:
Use detailed daily planner. Get enough sleep and rest. Exercise brain (learn something new, do word puzzles). Focus on one thing (no multi-tasking) |
Facts About TBI
For Everyone KEY POINTS A TBI affects how the brain works. TBI is a major cause of death and disability. TBIs may be missed in
