Cerebral Edema

[Laura MunsonStudent]

A good friend of mine had shoulder surgery about 3 weeks ago. She told the anesthesiologist that she had a bad reaction to Propofol previously that involved airway issues. He rolled his eyes at her and told her it was the safest drug available and that her reaction was probably to something else she got and against her wishes and the CRNA’s advice, gave propofol. After the surgery she said she felt “weird” but figured it was everything wearing off. Five days after the surgery she fell and could not get up or talk normally. She had excruciating pain in her head and numbness on her whole left side and weakness on her whole right side. She still cannot feel hot and cold on the left side but can walk with a cane. The right side is weaker but has sensation. She is a very mentally and physically healthy, athletic 45 year old. She is getting slightly better. Her orthopedic surgeon told her that he read up on the issue and believes the propofol shouldn’t have been given and it made her brain swell, causing these symptoms. Her husband had taken her back to the hospital where she spent several days ruling out a stroke etc and she also spent a few days in rehab and is getting physical therapy now.

My question: I have helping her with meals and care and notice her ankles and hands are a bit swollen. I am trained, like the doctors I work with, to see and treat every system as (mostly) separate and I know that isn’t true. They are thinking about putting her on prednisone which could also be dangerous. I just wish I knew enough about herbal remedies that could bring down all the swelling in her body. Any advice?

[Dr. Patrick JonesHomestead Instructor]

Never abdicate responsibility for your healthcare to a physician (or anyone else). If you don’t want something done/used put it in writing and make the physician sign it.

Diuretics are the best bet for edema cases. Dandelion, parsley, burdock etc…

Doc

Don't use herbs or combine herbs with medications or use them during lactation or pregnancy without talking with your healthcare provider.

[Laura MunsonStudentTopic Author]

Thanks! I did already suggest the dandelion tea but I think she and her husband are not too convinced. I might just bring some over and let them decide. It is not easy getting people to think outside the box sometimes.

[Author]

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