I so 'get it' with the Alzheimer's roller coaster ride, ups and downs with the health issues and new symptoms etc, then on to the plateaus, but I just knew this time was different. About ten days ago, DH began waking up in the night with hallucinations/bad dreams, accidents in the bed, on the carpet and of course the usual all over the bathroom. During the day he was going to the bathroom about twice his normal visits, and getting weaker each day, to the point he needed me to help him get up and even support his walk. About never got him from the shower to his bed. More confused than usual too. I'm thinking urinary tract infection, as I have experienced this while caring for my mother and aunt in the past. Called his PCP, who agreed and being Friday, directed me to the local ER so I could get a 'same day' lab result on blood and urine tests. Yuk. Off we went, tests were run, even a CAT scan to check for TIA or stroke etc. He was discharged with a clean bill of health, other than the obvious.
Don't care that some think I over-reacted. I know I was smart to check. Honestly, I was also hoping to be able to treat an illness that he could recover from and not be so difficult to help with. That sounds so selfish. Of course I don't want him sick, but now I suppose that this will be a new downward adjustment for me, and am waiting to see where he plateaus this time. The up-all-night thing is tough though, as I am wiped out. May be just another bump in the road. Maybe I am over-reacting. Just when I think I can handle our situation, there is always that next step down. Seems I would know that by now. We see his neurologist Monday. Just seems all they do is document the progress. Sure wish we had a crystal ball.
Janny, for what it's worth I think you did absolutely the right thing. So often abrupt changes are indeed from another illness such as UTI's. I think it is dangerous to always assume new symptoms are "just part of the disease". kudos on a job well done!
When our loved ones take yet another downward spiral it is so difficult to adjust to our new normal. Best of luck at the Neuro appointment. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you feel you need more support and help from them. ((hugs))
Nikki, your response was so uplifting for me. Sometimes ya just feel like there is nobody out there, (even if there is), but to check this site, and get your kudos was sure a perk. Thanks so.
We all want the crystal ball. And sometimes you do just know, instinctively, when you've hit a seismic shift in the downhill journey. There may be a plateau, there may not.
Ann...My heart goes out to you and others on here all the time. Yes...you will be strong and face whatever is down this terrible road. When my dh finally reached the end of the road I was so relieved for him knowing that he would at last have peace. That does not deminish the hurt and grief. You will be fine but I hope there are some still happy and peaceful times ahead for you.