Hi Dr. Landolfi;
Here is the next question from the group. First though, I want to pass on the sincere "thanks" expressed by many of the group members for your assistance.
Mental fatigue is experienced by both brain and spinal ependymoma survivors, and by those who have received radiation, and those who have not. Is it known what might be causing this symptom, and what drugs or other treatments might be useful? Are these symptoms likely to improve with the passage of time?
We have heard ...
Thank you (as always)
Bruce
The doctor's response...
Fatigue is multifactorial. It may be related to the tumor, the treatment(radiation and chemo) in those who receive it, and depression. Depression is very common for mental fatigue and forgetfulness, even in a patient who does not feel depressed. If related to treatment, it may or may not improve with the passage of time. If related to depression, it is unlikely to improve without treatment. With regards to medications, depending on what the doctor feels is the cause of the fatigue will dictate the med chosen. For example, if related to depression, drugs like paxil and zoloft may be used. If related to treatment, stimulants like ritalin, provigil, adderal may be used. Other drugs that can aid in mental fatigue include memantine. Also of course cognitive rehabilitaion or counseling may also help depending on the cause.
Dr. Landolfi