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  • Not really sure what I’m looking for…..

    Posted by Tina on June 12, 2023 at 8:25 am

    Hello all!

    My name is Tina and my dad, Hank, is currently in the hospital (he has PF).  My dad is 80, and diagnosed about 4 years ago.  Until about 2 weeks ago he was doing great!  Living independently, no oxygen needs.  Then he wound up in the hospital and although he showed tiny amounts of improvement today found him back on the bi-pap and very agitated.

    I guess my question is that we know the end of his life is near.  How can we best support him.  What can we expect?

    Much love,

    Tina

     

    José replied 2 years, 2 months ago 2 Members · 2 Replies
  • 2 Replies
  • Steve Dragoo

    Member
    June 13, 2023 at 9:27 am

    @tinagand

    Hi Tina,

    It sounds like he may have had a flair-up (acute exacerbation) they can be very difficult and generally you come out of it worse for the wear but still viable.  I have had 2. The first was very bad and I did not think I would make it and struggled badly because I could not catch my breath since my heart was racing.  That caused agitation but also the inability to do anything including eat for several weeks.

    So if this is similar, he may well pull through it ok.  The pulmonologist should be able to provide insight into what stage he is in.  Also, you mentioned PF and that means there is a known cause for his – mine not so. The root cause is a major clue what you might expect and when.

    Hope this helps…
    Steve

  • José

    Member
    June 13, 2023 at 3:00 pm

    I had it only once. I started to  cough and could not stop. Almost fainted which is a no no. I t alked to my therapist and said next time try getting my air with my nose and pump out the mouth. Continue this until stop and breathe is normal.

    I am 77 and was diagnosed at end state two years ago and still here.

     

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