Learning and Memory Problems

For some patients, a surprising side effect of transplant is changes in the the way they process information. Memory lapses, poor concentration, or difficulty multi-tasking are experienced by some transplant survivors. Not everyone experiences these changes, but if you do it's good to know that there are strategies to help you overcome these challenges. You should also know that, usually, these effects resolve or lessen over time. 

Survivors and their spouses, families and friends may get frustrated with a patient's memory and learning difficulties. It may be a source of anger when a survivor forgets a task and is accused of being lazy.

But memory problems are real for many survivors and they should be acknowledged and overcome in order to relieve tension and frustration.

Causes of Learning and Memory Problems

Learning and memory problems can be caused by a number of factors. Pain, fatigue, depression, and lack of adequate sleep can interfere with memory and concentration. Medical problems such as anemiaToo few red blood cells in the bloodstream, resulting in insufficient oxygen to tissues and organs., hypothyroidism or endocrine problems can also interfere with thinking. These medical problems are easy to treat, so consult your doctor to rule these out as causes.

Managing Memory Problems

The memory and concentration problems patients sometimes experience are similar to those seen in children with attention deficit disorder. It's not surprising, therefore, that drugs, like Ritalin®, which are used to treat this condition can also help transplant survivors with memory problems.

There are several other steps you can take to help focus attention and help with memory problems.

Exercise has been shown to have a beneficial effect on patients with memory problems. We're not talking about vigorous exercise that wears you out, but things like 5 minutes a day on a stationary bike.

Relaxation techniques or yoga can help reduce stress and also help with memory problems. Some people have found that self-hypnosisA trance-like state in which a person becomes more aware and focused and is more open to suggestion. techniques relieve stress. These techniques are often taught at cancer wellness centers, at hospitals or at community centers for free or low cost.

Easy changes in lifestyle can help you you focus your attention and improve memory.

Slow down the pace of your life, even in daily conversation. Think about what you want to say and get thoughts out one at a time.

Plan ahead and make lists. Daily planners or PDAs are very helpful. Create a list of tasks you need to do the next day. Prioritize them so you get the most important things done first. Create a master list of activities - things you have to do each day or each month. At the end of the day, check your lists to be sure everything was done.

Find ways to conserve energy. Schedule tasks for the times of day when you have the most energy. Break tasks into managable segments and rest between each step. Set up a good sleep routine and stick to it.

Simplify your life. Use direct deposit for payroll checks, or automated withdrawls from your checking account to pay routine bills. Set appliances on automatic timers to turn on and off.

Create a memory station for yourself - a place where you always put items you'll need the next day such as keys, wallet, etc.

Try setting up routines such as parking in the same spot at work or doing chores in a specific order each day.

BMT InfoNet offers a webcast for adults with learning and memory problems, presented by Dr. Christina Meyers, MD Anderson Cancer Center.

If your child is the transplant survivor, view our webcast about learning and memory problems in children presented by Dr. Daniel Armstrong, University of Miami.