Recovery from Right Brain Hemorrhage in an 80-Year-Old

Cerebral hemorrhage in the superficial region of the right hemisphere in an 80-year-old patient?

Hello, Doctor: My mother had a 60cc hemorrhage in the right cerebral hemisphere on July 23, 2022.
It has not affected her motor strength, but she has been sleeping a lot.
She responds when called but falls back asleep shortly after.
Her blood pressure has returned to normal.
The internal medicine department has suggested that the blood clot can be absorbed naturally without the need for surgical drainage.
I would like to ask: 1.
How long does it typically take for 60cc to be absorbed? 2.
The hospital said she can be discharged.
If we take her home, how can we monitor her condition to ensure it does not worsen? 3.
Is it possible to perform passive rehabilitation exercises while she is in an unresponsive state? Thank you!

Qaq, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/08

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

1.
Typically, it can be fully absorbed within a month.

2.
Since we are unaware of the patient's current condition, please consult the original attending physician.

3.
It is possible.

Reply Date: 2022/08/08

More Info

Recovery from a right brain hemorrhage, especially in an elderly patient, can be a complex and nuanced process. Your mother’s case, involving a 60cc hemorrhage in the right superficial area of the brain, presents several important considerations for her recovery and ongoing care.

1. Duration for Absorption of Hematoma
The absorption of a hematoma can vary significantly based on several factors, including the size of the hemorrhage, the patient's overall health, and the body's healing capacity. Generally, smaller hematomas like the one your mother has (60cc) can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to fully absorb. The body typically reabsorbs the blood through a process called phagocytosis, where immune cells break down the blood cells and clear the debris. Regular follow-up imaging, such as CT scans, may be necessary to monitor the size of the hematoma and ensure that it is indeed shrinking over time.

2. Monitoring for Deterioration at Home
When your mother is discharged from the hospital, it is crucial to monitor her closely for any signs of deterioration. Here are some key indicators to watch for:
- Neurological Changes: Look for any sudden changes in her responsiveness, such as increased confusion, inability to wake up, or any new weakness in her limbs.

- Physical Symptoms: Monitor for headaches, nausea, vomiting, or any signs of increased intracranial pressure, such as severe drowsiness or changes in pupil size.

- Behavioral Changes: Note any significant changes in her behavior, mood swings, or agitation, which could indicate complications.

- Vital Signs: Keep an eye on her blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature, as fluctuations could signal underlying issues.

It is advisable to have a clear plan for emergency situations, including knowing when to seek immediate medical attention.

3. Passive Rehabilitation
Engaging in passive rehabilitation can be beneficial, even if your mother is not fully awake. Passive range-of-motion exercises can help maintain joint flexibility and prevent stiffness. Here are some guidelines for passive rehabilitation:
- Gentle Movements: Carefully move her arms and legs through their full range of motion without forcing any movements. This can help maintain circulation and prevent contractures.

- Frequency: Aim for several sessions throughout the day, depending on her tolerance and comfort level.

- Observation: Always observe her for any signs of discomfort or pain during these exercises, and adjust accordingly.

- Engagement: Even if she is not fully awake, talking to her during the exercises can provide a sense of connection and may stimulate her awareness.

Conclusion
Recovery from a right brain hemorrhage can be a gradual process, especially in older adults. While the body has remarkable healing capabilities, the timeline for recovery can vary widely. It is essential to maintain open communication with her healthcare providers, follow their recommendations, and ensure that you are equipped to monitor her condition effectively at home. If you have any concerns or notice any changes in her condition, do not hesitate to reach out to her medical team for guidance. Your proactive involvement in her care will be crucial in supporting her recovery journey.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Brain Hemorrhage After Falls: A Case Study

Dear Deputy Director, My grandfather is 71 years old and has high blood pressure, but he is physically strong. On November 4th, he slipped on gravel while trying to catch a dog that had run out of the house and collided with a post. While waiting for the ambulance, he managed to...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
I would like to offer my support, but without detailed CT scan reports and neurological examinations, it is difficult to provide accurate advice and prognosis for the patient. I recommend consulting the original treating physician for further inquiries.

Understanding Head Injuries in Elderly Patients: Risks and Recovery

Hello, doctor. I recently had an accident with a woman around 70 years old. After the collision, she fell to the ground on her right side and was responsive when transported by ambulance, with all four limbs able to move. Later, the hospital examination revealed swelling in her r...

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery
It is certainly possible for the condition to become more severe, but it may not, depending on whether there are subsequent brain hemorrhages and complications that arise.

Rehabilitation Strategies for Left Brain Hemorrhage Recovery

Hello Dr. Jiang, My mother (approximately 65 years old) suddenly experienced dizziness on January 16, followed by a gradual loss of consciousness and almost no sensation in her right limbs. She was taken to the emergency room where a CT scan revealed a brain hemorrhage located ...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Mr. Chang, You mentioned that "the nurse said my mother's condition is not suitable for hyperbaric oxygen therapy." (1) The following diseases or symptoms are contraindications for treatment: 1. Epilepsy 2. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 3....

Understanding ICH: Recovery Insights for a 65-Year-Old with High Blood Pressure

Hello, my mother is 65 years old and has a history of hypertension. She secretly stopped taking her medication. One night, she reported numbness in her hand, and on the evening of July 30, she was urgently taken to the hospital. After the first CT scan, the doctor diagnosed her w...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Dear Ms. Hanna, 1. I would like to ask, given my mother's condition, is a blood clot larger than 30mm in the left basal ganglia considered severe in the context of cerebral hemorrhage? A: The severity depends not only on the size of the clot but also on its location. If the...