Radiation injury to the brain or nerves

Overview

Damage can include memory problems, weakness, numbness, or hormone problems.

Rehab and medicines can help.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Memory or thinking changes

Less common

• Weakness

Look up a symptom: Muscle weakness in arms or legs · New confusion or not acting like themselves

When to get medical care

Causes

Radiation.

Who is more likely to get it

• People who had radiation to the head, neck, or chest: The only cause
• People who got higher doses: More risk

Possible complications

• Memory loss and dementia: Thinking may slowly get worse
• Seizures: From damaged brain tissue

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Rehab
• Do rehab
• Pace activities

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• People treated for head and neck cancer: Higher risk.

Outlook

Some improve with treatment.

Some improve over time.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Which specialists should I see?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Radiation injury to the brain or nerves