Delirium

  • 2 replies
  • 21 subscribers
  • 397 views

My 80 year old mum was diagnosed with cancer 2 weeks ago. She has been admitted to hospital as she is very physically weak and has other medical conditions e.g diabetes, colostomy bag etc. 

She has been given steroids, morphine for pain and has high blood sugar due to the steroids. She also has Covid. 

Recently, she has been a bit delirious. I find it really distressing and don’t know how to help. One minute she says something normal, the next it’s complete nonsense. is this to be expected???? 

  • Hi  and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your mum's diagnosis.

    A cancer diagnosis like this in the family can be such a challenging and stressful time but getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' support challenges can help a lot.

    The Community is actually divided into Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) and when it comes to the practical and emotional challenges of supporting family and friends you may benefit from joining and posting in our Carers only and Supporting someone with incurable cancer support groups where you will connect with others navigating the exact same support challenges.

    To join a group first click on the “Bold Link” I have created above then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)

    You can then put up your own post when you’re ready by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post. You can also scroll through other members posts and click “Reply” to get involved.

    Our Support Line teams are available 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on freephone 0808 808 00 00email or live webchat where you will find one of team there to help you out. We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.

    Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.

    Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

    Community Champion Badge

  • Hi @yorkyox. I’m so sorry to hear about your moms health. What she delirious before? Steroids are well  known contributors of delirium!