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My mother had a stoke and is paralyzed on her left side. They have inserted a feeding tube. Should I have it removed.
Optional Information: Person's Gender: Female Person's Age: 64 Already Tried: My mother had a stroke two days ago. She is paralyzed on her left side and cannot swallow. They have inserted a feeding tube. Should I have it removed and let her go on peacefully. She is not conscious.
Hi
This is Dr Sathya and I am very glad to help you with your question.
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It seems that your mom had unfortunately a massive stroke.
That is why she is not conscious.
The prognosis for massive strokes is generally not good.
Patients either die or will be left with major definits (paralysis, speech problems etc)
However a small percentage of patients might recover
And recover reasonably well
But it takes time
Once they survive this acute stage they may gradually recover
Along with aggressive rehabilitational therapy
Physical therapy, speech therapy etc.
There are no standard protocols in these circumstances
Some family members opt for discontinuing the life sustaining measures likre feeding etc.
It also depends what she might have wanted (living will)
Should I have the feeding tube removed? She has a living will and I am power of attorney over the living will.
Yes, in that case you might consider it because overall prognosis is not good for her. But these decisions are made in conjunction with the family dr too.
If you ask my opinion it is correct to do so, because she may not have a good quality of life even if she survives this
She will be left with major weakness, cognitive deficits, speech problems etc.
It is not inappropriate to pull the feeding tube ou in this situationt, but the final decision is generally made after discussing with the family dr too.