Cognitive function (IQ) decline, anyone else? - Page 2

Jackie07 · 07-19-2008, 12:59 PM

Thank you, Joe. That was the first one of the four recommendations listed by the neuropsychologist I saw at Scott & White Hospital:

1. Given her memory difficulties and memory decline, she may benefit from an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, such as Aricept.

2. It is recommended that the strengths and weaknesses contained in the report be taken into consideration for present and future job training...preferably in a job that does not have a lot of memory or organization demands...

3. Her memory deficits may be augmented with external cues, such as calendars, journals, day planners, and lists. [But I often forgot 'where' I had written it down, or just couldn't find it. I also noticed that sometimes I would miss certain words I was reading - it's like I've got a selective attention problem.]

4. Neuropsychological re-evaluation is recomended in one year, or sooner if there is a prominent cognitive decline.

Jean · 07-19-2008, 01:32 PM

Jackie,
After my chemo I noticed I had a bit of mental fogginess and sluggish memory recall especially with names. It has improved greatly as time passes.

My poor Aunt who at the time was 94 and had just gone through loosing my Uncle (they were married 70 yrs) and she was so distraught with his passing...had let her tiny poodle out and forgot about her for hours. (she lived
in Florida) well the poor dog did not make it with the heat. So I understand - it is the small day to day living activies that become so difficult. The small ordinary
tasks that one would not consider a problem.

The men and care givers in our lives truly experience deep emotional stress - (God bless them all).

Your high IQ is likely to your benefit and to future students who will need a great math tutor. Plus you have the added benefit of deep understanding and kindness to offer to your students. I notice that once
we begin this journey we either become deeply understanding or bitter....and we know which one you are.

Hugs,
jean

Jackie07 · 07-19-2008, 02:13 PM

Jean,

Didn't mean to just talk about myself when I started the thread. But I'd like to share a little bit more in response to your very kind comment.

I am probably one of the very few persons in the world that was 'happy' when we were informed that I had a life-long, solid, and huge brain tumor that needed to be resected right away. You see, there are very, very few believers in the country where I came from. After I was baptized, I finished college and started preparing for studying overseas. That was basically my Mother's wish, and I was her last hope - I am the youngest of her six children. "Honer thy parents, so you will live long", it was promised in the Bible.

So, I saw the purpose of the whole journey at that first, big trial. I didn't complain because I couldn't complain. And up till now, I still think God has a purpose in everything. It is not just "Glass half-full" attitude. It is that I actually have experienced the miracles so many times that I know whatever happens next, it is gonna be a better plan from God because He knows better than me what's in the future.

End of my preach.

For those who are also expericing cognitive decline, please 'confess'... and 'contribute'

Jackie07 · 07-21-2008, 01:27 PM

My husband just logged on to the website of IQtest.com to see what his cognitive function is like. Turned out it requires $9.95 to get the result. Long, long time ago when I took it the first time, it did not ask for money. We didn't mind paying the money, but I am concerned about putting in credit card/or check information on-line.

Just wanted to mention it in case anyone is checking it out - didn't want to be viewed as doing advertisement for them.

Most health care providers probably will give us a referral to get a complete personality profile within their health care system. My HMO charged me $50 co-pay for the whole day test.
Of course, that's aside from the $600.00 (now $719 for two) insurance payment each month.

It is gonna be tough when we have to pay the whole amount out of our own pocket while without a job.
I am writing here so I'll remember to get on COBRA soon.

Jackie07 · 07-21-2008, 02:12 PM

Found this site doing a "Free IQ test" search. Haven't tried it yet. Thought I would attach it here.

http://www.highiqsociety.org/iq_tests/

Sherryg683 · 07-21-2008, 09:49 PM

I was never the sharpest tool in the tool shed to begin with, always was a little bumble headed, I was always more of the artsy, creative type. Now I just feel like an idiot sometimes and it's been over 2 years since my chemo, still on Herceptin though. I stumble over my words terribly, i forget things. I ask the same questions over and over and don't remember the answer when told. This frustrates the heck out of my hubby, when I ask him 3 times in 5 minutes if he's let the dogs out. My Oncologist told me that short term memory loss is normal with chemo, he didn't mention it getting any better either. Joe...is Provigil a drug that is being used now, or is it still in trial phasaes? I'm going to have to check on that, I always feel that when I meet someone that doesn't know me they will think I am just plain dumb...sherryg683

Jackie07 · 07-21-2008, 10:09 PM

And I have been 'treated' like an idiot during several time periods of my life. Just have to 'bite my tongue' (a phrase I learned from my Mother-in-law, a super shy, yet very tough Texan) and make plans to launch another miraculous comeback... As Sir Winston Churchill once said: "Never, never, never give up."

I also found that 'exercise' helps me most in turning the tide...

Jackie07 · 07-24-2008, 09:29 AM

And that includes 'brain exercise'. Just did the test on the International High IQ Society website, and my score already bounced up 10 points.

Yes, I am determined...

Jackie07 · 07-24-2008, 10:37 PM

MJo,

How did your test with the neurologist go?

MJo · 07-25-2008, 10:28 AM

Thanks for asking about my trip to the neurologist. Very nice man. I am absolutely fine. His cautious comment about what might have caused my cognitive problems: "You've been through a lot." We tough as nails ladies here must give ourselves a break and pamper ourselves. We have been through a lot!

Mary Anne in TX · 07-25-2008, 10:46 AM

I'm thinking a train trip of about 10 days through the Northwest National Parks would do wonders for my IQ! Now, I just have to work like a fool for a year to save the $9,000. to pay for it! But just think about the reward!
It is so hard to not be able to compete at the same level as before, BUT, I also do enjoy Not Being Able to compete!!!!
Isn't life something!
We're not better or worse...just different, with new opportunities to "shine"!
Love to all, ma

notamrnpsn · 07-25-2008, 11:07 AM

I am so happy I am not the only one who stumbles around. I at times just stand and look at my hubbie and can't get the words out.
I went and saw my Onc. today for a postop checkup. He wants mw to have a bone scan to make sure no residual cells have strayed into my bones. So it;s another waiting game. Hugs and Blessings, Jeanette