[ad_1]
Post-intensive care syndrome refers to physical, cognitive, and mental health issues that can develop after a person has survived a life threatening illness, most often after being discharged from the ICU.
According to the American Thoracic Society, more than 50% of people who spend time in a hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU) develop at least one complication of post-intensive care syndrome.
These complications may affect:
- cognitive function (thinking ability)
- physical function
- mental health
This article will take a closer look at post-intensive care syndrome, including the symptoms, treatment, and overall outlook.
Any person who survives a life threatening illness can develop post-intensive care syndrome. This includes people who were healthy before they got sick.
However, it’s more likely to affect people who spend time in a hospital’s ICU. The longer the stay, the higher the risk.
The risk is also higher for people who are older and people who have preexisting health conditions. Spending time in the ICU may worsen preexisting conditions or lead to new issues. This includes conditions like:
- lung disease
- muscle disorders
- dementia
- acute brain dysfunction (from stroke or severe alcohol use disorder)
Additionally, people who develop certain complications while they’re sick are more likely to have post-intensive care syndrome. Examples of these complications can include:
Post-intensive care syndrome is different for everyone. Some people may experience one or two complications, while others might develop many. The severity can also vary.
The symptoms can appear while a person is in the ICU. But in general, the term “post-intensive care syndrome” is used to describe issues that develop after a person leaves the ICU.
Additionally, the symptoms fall into different categories, such as physical and cognitive function and mental health. A person can have any combination of these symptoms. Let’s look at each category in a bit more detail.
Cognitive function
More than
- difficulty thinking
- memory loss
- poor concentration and attention
- language issues
- impaired visual-spatial abilities
Physical function
Post-intensive care syndrome may cause the following physical symptoms:
Mental health
Mental health symptoms of post-intensive care syndrome can include:
Because post-intensive care syndrome can cause so many different symptoms, there’s no specific way to diagnose it. A doctor may diagnose the condition in the hospital or after a person has left the hospital.
Doctors can diagnose post-intensive care syndrome using a combination of:
- Observation: A doctor might notice certain symptoms by talking with the person or asking how they are. Similarly, they may learn about these symptoms by talking with the person’s caregiver.
- Strength and endurance tests: These tests measure physical function. One example is a walking test.
- Lung function tests: A doctor may request a lung function test to monitor breathing.
- Questionnaires: This is helpful for monitoring a person’s mental status, physical function, and cognitive abilities after they’re discharged from the ICU.
If a healthcare professional suspects other symptoms, they might suggest additional tests and exams.
Post-intensive care syndrome can last for several months to years. The exact treatment depends on the specific symptoms.
A doctor may prescribe the following therapies:
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy, exercise, and rehabilitation can help improve weakness and other physical issues. This treatment usually lasts 6 to 12 weeks.
- Psychological and behavioral therapy: This type of therapy can help mental health issues like anxiety and depression. A doctor may prescribe medications in certain cases.
- Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy can help people manage their new symptoms and make daily activities easier.
- Neurocognitive treatment: For cognitive issues, a specialist called a neurologist can perform an evaluation and suggest specific treatment.
Loved ones and caregivers of a person with post-intensive care syndrome might also need their own treatment and support. This can include therapy for managing issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief.
There are ways to reduce the risk and severity of post-intensive care syndrome. Researchers suggest that healthcare professionals follow
- minimize how long a person uses a mechanical ventilator
- limit sedatives as much as possible
- start physical therapy early
- encourage movement
- allow friends and family to visit
- communicate with and engage friends and family
- monitor for delirium and other mental health issues
Generally, symptoms of post-intensive care syndrome last for 6 months to 1 year. The recovery process will look different for each person.
Some symptoms might go away on their own within a few weeks. Other symptoms may take months or years to improve. In certain cases, symptoms may continue for several years.
If symptoms persist, it may be difficult for a person to return to work or be able to pay for therapy. This can greatly affect their quality of life.
Post-intensive care syndrome is a group of physical, cognitive, and mental health issues that can occur after a severe illness. It’s most common in people who spend time in the ICU or have preexisting health conditions.
The symptoms of post-intensive care syndrome can vary in type and severity. Some symptoms may only last for a few weeks, while other symptoms can last for years. Treatment often includes physical, behavioral, psychological, and occupational therapy.
Patients, family members, and caregivers can get the support they need by working with healthcare professionals. Some hospitals may provide additional resources through post-ICU clinics.
[ad_2]
Source link
