Monday, September 8, 2014

Surgery - Yes or No?

There was a post on Alzheimer's Reading Room, the best clearing-house for dementia and caregiver information currently, about anesthesia and it's effects on dementia. Below is a link to their list of articles and other information about this important topic. Too many caregivers and loved ones of dementia sufferers don't yet know the dangers of anesthesia to those with dementia.

It can cause a worsening of cognitive dysfunction; physical paralysis, muscle contracture, and other problems; and increased delirium and confusion. These effects are particularly bad in those with Lewy Body dementia.

Even though I knew Dad had Lewy Body dementia, I wasn't aware of the risks of anesthesia. I authorized a surgery for a double hernia, which I probably didn't have much choice about, but which I would have considered even more carefully had a known about anesthesia and dementia. After the surgery, I noticed a marked drop in his mental presence, facial affect, and cognitive abilities. I only found out a year or so later that the anesthesia had probably worsened his LBD symptoms.

When my caregivers ask whether they should authorize a particular operation or procedure for their loved ones with dementia, I always inform them of the risks, tell them to talk to the physician and research other options, and decide whether the procedure is really necessary.

Check out the link below for more great information.

http://www.google.com/cse?cx=003431791898687910529:WMX1763778196&q=Anesthesia&oq=Anesthesia&gs_l=partner.12..0l2.2740.2740.0.6186.1.1.0.0.0.0.79.79.1.1.0.gsnos%2Cn%3D13...0.80j6400j2..1ac.1.25.partner..0.1.79.t3tl-vP5y7Q#gsc.tab=0&gsc.q=Anesthesia&gsc.page=1

1 comment:

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