Is this the end?(3)

MrsAnnabelLee

Mom has been rapidly declining over the past few weeks with two stroke-like events and increased drowsiness, declining communication ability, and increased Mobility issues. Now, today, she is barely able to stay awake. They were having to wake her between bites of food to get her to eat anything. One thing to consider is that her lexapro was recently increased a bit. Could that be causing this or does this sound like she is nearing the end? I don’t know what to prepare for. Hospice is coming on Monday to evaluate.

​fesk

I am very sorry to hear of your mom's declining condition. It is good hospice will be coming, and I hope they are able to provide you with the support you need.

Has your mother had a thorough medical evaluation? You mentioned stroke-like events. There could be any number of causes for her current decline or it could be progression. If she hasn't had a thorough exam, bloodwork, urinalysis, etc. please consider having that done. Medication increases can also cause the issues you are describing. I have seen it first hand. If safe to do and the issues started after the increase in Lexapro, speak to the doctor about decreasing it.

harshedbuzz

MrsAL-

How long ago was the Lexapro bumped up? I would absolutely ask the prescriber about this development. 

My anecdote is that I was prescribed Lexapro by my PCP during a rough patch of PTSD/anxiety-- it was when my MIL was dying, my son was being evaluated for autism and my house was destroyed in a flood. Dark days. It was great initially but over time, but as my life settled down, I found it made me very tired and sleepy. When I weaned off it, I was sleeping 10 hours a night and napping a couple hours daily when I could as an otherwise healthy 44 year old.

HB

CanyonGal

I agree with "fesk" that it could be a number of things. Hospice (at least the hospice companies I have dealt with) do not do blood tests but my mom's PCP, a physician, does order tests. 

My mother was unresponsive and written as imminent but next day was walking and eating as usual - her BP was the culprit. So, if you're seeing stroke-like events, then if you are able, I would be taking her BP regularly. 

Is she able to swallow correctly? No gagging or coughing? Fever?