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Member since 9/26/04
Posts: 478
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Posted on: 9/9/05 7:47 AM ET
My DMIL had a hemorrhagic stroke over the weekend, precipitated by long term Coumadin therapy. I'm searching for any resources I might not have yet found. Unfortunately, most research has been done on the other kind of stroke. Luckily she was a) in a public place when it happened, so she was in the ER within 1/2 hour and b) her primary syptoms are dizziness and occasional visual inversion (no paralysis or weakness). She is already in a rehab facility and is undergoing OT and PT.

Anyone have any advice or experience in this area either as a patient or a caregiver?

Jennifer
  
Member since 10/31/04
Posts: 998
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Posted on: 9/9/05 8:05 AM ET
Usually this is caused by high blood pressure or an aneurysm, a blood vessels bursts in the brain and bleeding happens. Coumadin is a blood thinner and needs to be monitored very closely.. Sounds like your MIL was lucky to get medical attention quickly. My MIL had the same thing last year but lucky for her she bled into her ventricles so had no residual damage. Hers was from hight blood pressure (she wasn't taking her meds) . I bought her a blood pressure machine so every morning now she checks her BP and of course she takes her meds now and goes to the doctor. It is good she is in PT and OT. She will need close monitoring now so this doesn't happen again.
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Penny

Fabric Mart Bundle Fabric sewn- 10.5 yds
  
Member since 11/14/04
Posts: 16
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Posted on: 9/9/05 9:14 AM ET
If you do a Google search, you'll find a lot of good information and resources. However, my favorite first place to look is the Merck website. Go to:
http://www.merck.com/mmhe/sec06/ch086/ch086d.html

I'm a 24/7 caregiver for my 87-year-old Aunt and 3 senior cats so I frequently have occasion to research medical conditions, symptoms, treatments, medications etc. I always go to Merck first.
  
Member since 1/1/03
Posts: 2737
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Posted on: 9/9/05 12:09 PM ET
Jennifer, She was really lucky to be given medical help immediately!

nickle and L.L., thanks for the info. My MIL (my dear friend) suffered one from the same medicational imbalance and we've almost lost her a number of times since then. She's in assisted living now, having gone there from Hospice with a Do Not Resuscitate order on file. She suffered her stroke at home, alone and her brain spazmed from the acidity of the blood. We don't know how long she sat on the floor of her bedroom: it culd have been over 9 hrs. She has had a long and difficult time of it

Coumadin can be very dangerous and anyone taking it should be very closely, closely monitored esp if they are depressed, ill or elderly.

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http://www.thestitchery.wordpress.com
http://www.thesewingdivas.wordpress.com
  
Member since 11/14/04
Posts: 16
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Posted on: 9/9/05 3:24 PM ET
As nickle and MaryBeth emphasized, Coumadin requires careful, constant review. However, sometimes it is the only/best alternative for a specific patient's condition.

Actually, caregivers need to pay careful attention to ALL medications/treatments/eating/behavior patterns and potential negative reactions and/or conflicts with any of the above.

I maintain a daily log including information like times/results of blood pressure readings, medications, unusual behavior, special problems and caregiver solutions.

The form also highlights medications we know she cannot take so that I can give it to her primary care doctor or any other health care provider...ESPECIALLY EMERGENCY CARE providers.

Listen to health care providers (hospital staff, doctors, pharmacists, etc.), ASK A LOT OF QUESTIONS until you get an answer you can understand and do your own research (see my earlier post).

Don't be afraid to challenge any medical professional. They have a tough job, but (as a caregiver) so do you.

The GOOD health care professionals will be willing to listen, appreciate your interest and make an extra effort to help you deal with your specific situation. Others will resent your questions and try to get rid of you ASAP. Fire them and find a new resource that you feel comfortable with.

Hope this helps. Good luck with your most recent challenge and opportunity.

Linda



  
Member since 1/1/03
Posts: 2737
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Posted on: 9/9/05 5:22 PM ET
L.L. you're doing an incredible job, one worth so much more than I can say. The alternative, a lesser level of care, can bring horrific results.

If I can ever help you in anyway, please just let me know. Seriously. You have my deep admiration!
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http://www.thestitchery.wordpress.com
http://www.thesewingdivas.wordpress.com
  
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