Leaking aneurysm

Posted by amclay24 @amclay24, Jul 29 6:46am

OK, so my father's aortic aneurysm has grown x5 the size very rapidly and is now leaking. A full rupture is imminent, but a blood clot has formed, and is slowing the bleed. He's 83, and not fit for the required surgery. They sent him home, with a 3-6 days to live, that was 7 weeks ago.. He's hanging on, but we're terrified of the imminent rupture as we know it's the end. Any advice??

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This must be so stressful. I have no information about it. I hope you do find some. So sorry for your family. How is your father feeling otherwise?

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@celia16

This must be so stressful. I have no information about it. I hope you do find some. So sorry for your family. How is your father feeling otherwise?

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Well that's just it, he thinks he's got it beat, life as usual, doing things that have us all horrified.. Mums no better, she's not very mobile, and he's waiting on her hand and foot!!! They prayed for a miracle, they think they've got one... Its very sad, and difficult to try and explain to two elderly people how irresponsible they're being!!

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@amclay24

Well that's just it, he thinks he's got it beat, life as usual, doing things that have us all horrified.. Mums no better, she's not very mobile, and he's waiting on her hand and foot!!! They prayed for a miracle, they think they've got one... Its very sad, and difficult to try and explain to two elderly people how irresponsible they're being!!

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That can’t be easy to navigate. My dad has aortic aneurysm too, though not yet at a stage to take action, and due to his age of 87, I doubt he would be a candidate for intervention in the future. He has CHF and a few other ailments. There’s really nothing he can do, except take his meds and try to stay as mobile as possible.

I can’t know what you are going through , but did the doctors provide any restrictions for his activities? Is there any down side to him being at peace and feeling good about being home?

Would it be possible to get him some help in the home to care for your mother?

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I am truly sorry to hear about your father's condition. It's evident that you deeply care for him and are doing everything possible to ensure his comfort and well-being. It's understandable to feel a mix of fear and uncertainty about what lies ahead. While it is amazing that he has surpassed the initial prognosis of 3-6 days, it's important to prepare for what might come next. I suffered a sudden complete dissection of my aorta in 2015. I was 50 years old and survived after two emergency open heart surgeries.

First, keep a close eye on any new or worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, dizziness, sudden weakness, or loss of consciousness, and maintain regular communication with his healthcare team. Focus on comfort care to alleviate any pain or distress, creating a calm and soothing environment at home.

Second, if you haven't already, consider engaging hospice services. Hospice care is designed to provide comprehensive support to both your father and your family, focusing on quality of life and comfort. Hospice professionals can offer medical, emotional, and spiritual support, helping to manage symptoms and provide much-needed respite for caregivers. My brother passed away earlier this year here in Minneapolis at hospice and it was really wonderful (Allina in case you're in Minnesota).

Third, it's vital to support each other as a family during this time. Share memories, express your love, and spend quality time together. Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or support groups for yourself and other family members to navigate this emotional journey.

Finally, your dad has already defied the initial prognosis, which speaks volumes about his will and the care he’s receiving. While the uncertainty can be overwhelming, focus on making each day as meaningful and comfortable as possible for him. Lean on the support of your loved ones, healthcare professionals, and spiritual advisors if that is part of your belief system. Take some solace in knowing that you are doing everything in your power to ensure his dignity and peace during this time.

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Can you get a second opinion on surgery? My 83 year old friend just had surgery. Maybe other things about your father's health make it too difficult.

Hospice might be a priority since otherwise you will have to call 911 if something happens, which then leads to all kinds of things you might not want.

I believe my mother died from a leaking aneurysm. It was painful but with hospice care, morphine and ativan, it was gentle. We didn't know for sure if that is what is going on. It is beneficial that you know.

If that is truly what is going on your probably can't save him and hospice would probably say to just let him dow he wants.

Make sure he had a MOLST or whatever your state requires with DNR, no life support etc.

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@amclay24

Well that's just it, he thinks he's got it beat, life as usual, doing things that have us all horrified.. Mums no better, she's not very mobile, and he's waiting on her hand and foot!!! They prayed for a miracle, they think they've got one... Its very sad, and difficult to try and explain to two elderly people how irresponsible they're being!!

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This is very sad and I know it's terribly difficult for you, but perhaps your father does know what's up and is choosing how to face it. I'm 78. When I was younger, I was so freaked out by the thought of death I wouldn't even visit my grandmother's grave on Memorial Day. When my elderly parents died--of heart disease and stroke--I simply didn't know how to cope. I have a better sense of things now. Honestly, both my parents lived about four or five years too long. Those last years weren't pleasant for them at all. If your dad goes quickly, as it seems he might, it might not be as tragic as you imagine. There's no way to make this easy. I'm sorry for your pain.

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Sorry to hear , will pray for ur dad speedy recovery .

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For Coeliac Artery Aneurysm
patient is that allow for harvy exercise?
Exp : Golf . Swimming and etc .
Appreciate if you could advise .

Regards
Wendy

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Maybe he hasn’t received a miracle but more of a tender mercy that God is giving him some more time and he is using that time to benefit his family. Enjoy the time together. God bless you all.

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