Brain Surgery can be a very traumatic experience; it takes times for a
patient to revert to his/her normal energy levels. It is common for many patients to
faces spells of dizziness, confusion, depression and weakness post-surgery.
It takes approximately 12-18 months for the operated
brain to heal and gradually the patient will regain all his functions and get
back to his daily routine. However, in that time they need the complete support
and understanding of their near and dear ones, as well may need help from
therapists. This will help the patient in gaining back their independence as
well as confidence in their abilities.
Given below are some tips that
will help you deal with a patient:
1. After
undergoing brain surgery, a person
may feel disoriented and have some speech or understanding disorder for a
while. Family members and friends are advised to take pause when talking to the
patient, so that he/she can easily understand the conversation which is going
on. Speaking slowly and softly is not advisable, as patients may recognize it
and have an emotional outburst or feel hurt.
2. Caretakers
and family members should also keep reminding the conversation topic at
different points to the patient, so that it is easier for them to participate
in the conversation.
3. Family
members should also not react adversely in case of emotional expression,
instead show love and patience to a person who is recovering.
4. Caregivers
should make sure that the person recovering from brain surgery gets enough sleep and rest to recover.
5. People
talking with the patients should understand that the person's ability to learn
and remember will improve day-to-day, and any lapses in attention by the
patient are not caused by any act of stubbornness. Your care and understanding
will be essential towards them to recover.
6. Family
members should also make sure just to give enough care and not smother the brain surgery survivor. It is essential
for them to regain their confidence and a sense of competence.
Family members should take the patient for a
neuropsychological examination -- after treatment, 6 months later, and a year
later to see if they are recovering properly. Caregivers should watch out for
emotional outbursts, like rage, uncontrollable laughter, withdrawal and
depression. In case of such symptoms it is advisable to take the patient for a
checkup with medical practitioner.
