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Type B complicated Aortic Dissection
Hi My 87 Yr old Mother was diagnosed with type b aortic dissection 7 weeks ago . It is complicated with Pleural effusion and intramural haematoma. We were told that she would not live past two weeks ! Due to her age surgery was not a option. She has been well , ambulating only short distances due to breathlessness, and is very pale. The last two weeks she has had a constant cough which takes her breath away. She is only on a GTN patch for Blood pressure and on ventolin for her breathlessness and cough. Is the cough a sign of impending rupture ? I know it is due to pressure on the laryngeal nerve. I am beside myself with worry , I was told that the haematoma is the only thing stopping aorta from rupturing and it is only a matter of time before it happens. It is so hard watching her struggling to breath with this cough .
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Hi @glenys123, watching someone we love suffer is so heart wrenching. Of course you are beside yourself with worry. You don't want her to be in pain. I assume your mother is being cared for in a hospital? Has her care team talked to you about palliative care?
Hi , My Mum lives in a nursing home as she has alzhiemers. The Doctors at the hospital said that the best thing for her would be to go to where she feels comfortable, as they said nothing can be done for her in a hospital that couldnt be done in her home. Palliative care are involved, but so far have not had alot of input. But she is happy and is loved by all the staff. I am always on the lookout for any symptoms which could mean a rupture is close. I try just to enjoy my time with her but it is impossible not to think that it may be the last time I am with her.
Hi @glenys123,
I sincerely hope you are continuing to enjoy some time with your mother; is she keeping well? How are you doing?