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Real members of MyLungCancerTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is it the tumors in the brain or narcotic painkillers that create confusion?

A MyLungCancerTeam Member asked a question 💭
istanbul

I am noticing more inconsistencies in the things my dad with advanced cancer only on palliative care says, like today he asked me if i missed my flight out of blue. It looks like he is confusing dreams and reality. Is this because of the tumors or do the very strong painkillers create this effect on the patients? He just started confusing things, like letters and time in the last 2-3 days

August 13
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Answer Summary

Members offered heartfelt support to someone asking whether brain tumors or strong painkillers were causing their father's confusion and... Read more

Members offered heartfelt support to someone asking whether brain tumors or strong painkillers were causing their father's confusion and mixing of dreams with reality. Several members shared that both factors likely play a role, with one member who is a pharmacist noting that heavy narcotics can cause disorientation, while others with brain cancer described experiencing memory and processing difficulties themselves. A recurring theme was the importance of speaking with medical professionals, staying present with your loved one, and giving yourself grace during this incredibly hard time.

A MyLungCancerTeam Member

You should speak with the medical professional because it could be a reaction to the treatment and the medication(s) given as it affects everyone differently. Always ask if you are not sure.

August 13
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Hey Al, my momma had stage4 lung cancer that spread 2 her brain- it was like she had alzeimers...she didn't know who we were- and u could see her frustration on her face😖 It was hard 4 us- but I can only imagine how she musta felt😕

August 14
MyLungCancerTeam

Confusion and disorientation in advanced lung cancer can stem from a few different causes, and it's really important to work with your care team to figure out which one is at play.

Brain Metastases (Tumors)
When lung cancer spreads to the brain, it can cause cognitive changes like confusion. Treatment options may include:

Show Full Answer

Confusion and disorientation in advanced lung cancer can stem from a few different causes, and it's really important to work with your care team to figure out which one is at play.

Brain Metastases (Tumors)
When lung cancer spreads to the brain, it can cause cognitive changes like confusion. Treatment options may include:

- Medications to reduce swelling around the tumor
- Radiation therapy (whole-brain or targeted)
- Surgery in certain cases

Narcotic Pain Medications
Opioid painkillers can also cause confusion, brain fog, and disorientation as side effects — especially at higher doses or when first starting them. How Palliative Care Can Help
Palliative care teams are well-equipped to help sort out the cause of confusion and manage it. They can:

- Review medications and adjust dosages if narcotics are contributing
- Coordinate with your oncologist about brain-related symptoms
- Provide support for both physical and emotional wellbeing

A MyLungCancerTeam member shared that palliative care helped them work through medications that weren't working well for them.

Bringing this concern to your palliative care team or oncologist as soon as possible is really important — they can help identify the cause and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

August 13
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

God’s healing

August 24
A MyLungCancerTeam Member

Sending hugs and prayers 🙏🙏

August 24

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