My father has ARDS, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. He went into the hospital for a heart bypass surgery almost 6 weeks ago. Three weeks ago he had the surgery, 5 bypasses were done. He has coronary artery disease, hardening of the arteries. So far his heart is ok. But now, we found out that before the surgery it was discovered he had only 55% lung capacity, years of smoking! Now he is in CCU with ARDS, lung infection, bladder infection, intestinal infection, and possibly pneumonia. He is on a ventilator and cannot seem to tolerate a level below 70 %..right now the vent. is doing all the breathing so his body can rest. His bp is regulated by meds, he went sepsis and is sometimes running a fever.
We are all worried and on this crazy rollercoaster. Any advice, prayers or encouragement is greatly appreciated..
Michelle
The following user gives a hug of support to MIC in OH: cazajacks (03-21-2011)
My thoughts go out to your family. I really have no knowledge of your father's condition but wanted to make you aware of a possible side effect of being intubated for so long. Make sure that you ask his doctors about his chances of having tracheal stenosis. This is a narrowing of the trachea due to scar tissue forming and the most common cause is intubation. I know you did not need another worry at this time, but it pays to be aware of all possibilities. Once again, my thoughts to you and your family at this difficult time.
Actually 55% lung function is not that bad. The intubation will give his body time to recover and rest his lungs. He will be taken off slowly. He has other problems that I can not address but obviously it will be a long difficult time for him and his family but it definetly is not hopeless so keep up your spirits and his.
My thoughts go out to your family. I really have no knowledge of your father's condition but wanted to make you aware of a possible side effect of being intubated for so long. Make sure that you ask his doctors about his chances of having tracheal stenosis. This is a narrowing of the trachea due to scar tissue forming and the most common cause is intubation. I know you did not need another worry at this time, but it pays to be aware of all possibilities. Once again, my thoughts to you and your family at this difficult time.
Tracheal stenosis is a narrowing of the trachea. It can be due to swelling or scar tissue. Trauma to the trachea, such as prolonged intubation, can cause scar tissue to grow from where the cuff of the endotracheal tube rubs against the inside of the trachea. The stenosis usually presents by with shortness of breath and a stridorous sound (wheezing). It is commonly misdiagnosed as asthma or allergies.
