, Annette, breathing problems

[Guest guest]

Yo, CG's, Jan has continuing breathing problems - primarily due to phlegm,

mouth breathing, sinus drainage?? which coagulates and clogs glottis and

esophagus. He cannot control his tongue, swallow , cough or push the mucus

out.

Since he can't move, speak or help himself, he howls a little from his

diaphragm and I am usually near. Makes it difficult to go 48 steps to

mailbox - or anywhere else - but if turned on his right side breathes

easier.

Spasms have begun in his chest and abdomen area. The muscle atrophy and

contractures to limbs is severe. He is rigid and so compressed that I must

pry his armpit open to do temps.

His head is flexed backward and vertabrae pulled tight to his tailbone.

Airway is a straight ,clear, open path. His mouth is ALWAYS open !

Suction machines work for us. Ask JBF - Fisher - about apnea machines

and you've discussed exercises. Oxygen testing of peripheries seems

indicated. Vaporizers nearby sometimes help - especially if air

conditioners dry the room air. Lotsa troubles with these good guys when

bedfast.

LA Louise where the hungry birds sail into the fig bush like airplanes into

La Guardia on Holidays.

[Guest guest]

Louise,

I noticed your comment about not being able to move 48 steps away from your

husband.

Earlier, we had similar problems. If I did not stay in the room with

Speedy, he would get the feeling that I had just left. His voice is so soft

and weak that even though he would call for me, I could not hear him. We

have big time problems with bowels so sometimes he sits (with props) on the

commode for a lenghty time and I would get rather bored/tired of just

sitting when I could do at least one task while he is taking care of his

business.

Through one of the mail order companies, we found door bells that are

powered by pluging into a electric receptical. We have taped one of the

door bells to his hospital bed, one to his power wheel chair, and one to the

counter beside the commode. We plugged the ringers into three electric

outlets spread throughout the house. Now, I can go away for a few minutes

and he can ring for my help when he is ready. He feels less alone. I feel

less restricted.

This might be a suggestion for others. These ringers take very little

pressure so he does not have to put out lots of effort to get my attention.

the cost is low. We have reduced his level of frusrration when he would

begin calling almost the minute that I would walk out of the room.

Best wishes to you,

Marilyn in TN