Stroke - covid/ventilator

[Ren2985]

Hi there,

I thought I would post in this group to maybe get an answer. My dad was placed on a ventilator/trach from dec 31 to feb 1. Last week we found out that when he was on the ventilator he had a few strokes, which the dr said were quick. It affected his right side. He is able to talk, however, he is still whispering and can’t fully project his voice. His left leg and arm are working okay. His right leg is very, very slowly starting to bend, but with his right arm there is no movement. In addition, they have tried to feed him soft purees and foods of different textures and he keeps choking on them. He is overall really really weak still- which I know is expected. We are so thankful he has come out the hardest part. I guess I’m just wondering what some progression stories look like with someone who had been in similar situation. Thanks for taking the time to answer!

[SmileyMel]

My brain injury, caused by an impact during an rta. I was 9,came out of a coma and I was paralysed down the right side. I couldn't sit up in a chair, had to relearn everything again. Anyway I did relearn stuff, and my right side is fully mobile although I still have a dodgy gait and a it of weakness down my right side.Good luck, I hope it all goes well.

[cat3]

Not really a similar position Ren ; mine was a bleed on the brain. But whatever the issue, if it's a form of brain injury it's guaranteed to be a long haul, usually consisting of one step forwards and a few steps back.

I was too frail to move for several weeks and remember very little, but have since learned it was par for the course after any brain injury whether bleed, stroke or other type.

Your dad seems to have made good progress in one month, especially considering his raft of issues. Covid often requires a very lengthy stay in hospital so to have rallied through it, along with pneumonia and stroke, suggests he's a fighter and making promising progress.

The waiting for significant progress is nerve-wracking for loved ones and feels endless. But a significant period of quiet and rest is the best therapy for a shocked brain. It's an amazingly clever organ and knows instinctively what it needs to compensate for injury.

Sincere best wishes for your dad's continuing progress.... Cat x

[Pairofboots]

Hi, I'm no expert on this. But it does seem to be a common result of this desease. His speech will be weak, like the rest of him he hasn't used it, and it needs exercise.

SmileyMet gives cause for hope, and I'm sure with the right support your dad has a good chance. I wish you and your dad well.