Dear Family & Friends, On Sunday, August 19th, at approximately 10:30 PM...Our Mother (Barb) suffered a Grand Mal Seizure that caused her to lose consciousness, experience severe muscle spasms and convulsions. Earlier in the day a friend had driven her to the New Hampton Hospital emergency department for treatment for nausea, vomiting, weakness and sleepiness she was experiencing for several days. The prior week she sought treatment for a rash on her face near eye region and the unpleasant symptoms/side effects of what would eventually be diagnosed as Opthalmic Shingles. The nausea and vomiting was thought to be associated with some of the medications prescribed in her treatment plan and she was assessed and sent home with an anti-nausea medication. Several family members and friends had sporadic contact with her the days before and after her emergency department visit and became concerned with her excessive sleepiness and communications that did not seem normal. Mike decided to travel to her home to check on her and within minutes of his arrival and brief interaction she began having a grand mal seizure. She was taken by ambulance back to the New Hampton Hospital unresponsive. The Doctors initially believed that she had a stroke, continued to be unresponsive and their prognosis was not favorable.
She was transported to St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester, MN early morning on Monday, August 20th where she remained unresponsive. The medical staff at St. Mary's confirmed through testing that she had not suffered from a stroke, did not have meningitis and that she had Hyponatremia (when the Sodium level in your blood is extremely low) which can lead to seizures, coma and death . The Doctors treatment plan to raise her sodium levels slowly lead to her initially regaining consciousness without the ability to speak. Gradually, she has been regaining her speech and ability to inquire about why she was in the hospital. Her sodium levels continue to rise but she remains weak and sometimes a little confused with details. She has been moved from the ICU/Critical unit to a general hospital room.
The Doctors are consulting with Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and other specialists to put together a complete treatment plan and determine when she may be able to safely return home or be moved to an acute rehabilitation center. We appreciate your love, support and words of hope and encouragement. Thank you for visiting our caring bridge and we will post updates as new information becomes available. Christine & Mike
Mom (Barb) was discharged Friday evening from St. Mary’s Hospital to her home. She met with a Health & Home services representative on Saturday and will be receiving nursing, physical therapy and occupational therapy services in home while she is recovering. She is improving everyday, working diligently to regain her independent living status and we are hoping for a speedy recovery.
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