Hi,
just after some advice or guidance or anything really that might be helpful.
my dad had a brain tumour removed little over a week ago, he came home a week after his procedure and the first night everything was fine.
the second night was completely different, he went to bed with my mom and less than an hour later he was up accusing my mom of seeing another man and was convinced this man was coming round the house being quite aggressive towards my mom, so she tried to keep everything calm and stay out of his way while still being supportive for him. Later on in the day my brother went to see them and asked what was going on about the way he’d been with my mom and he had no recollection of what he’d done.
we had to call paramedics out to him as he was acting strange and trying to get out of the house.
is this normal behaviour after having the operation and how long could we expect it continue for?
the only medication he’s been taking is dexamethasone
HI Lee001
a warm welcome to the group. So sorry to hear about all that you and your family have been going through with your dad.
Sadly no two folk react the same after surgery so there's no magic answers here. I wish there were. My husband was diagnosed with a stage 4 brain tumour in Sept 2020 and to be honest, since a seizure 2 days before his surgery, he's never been the same person but his tumour was sited in the area of the brain that controls speech, language and understanding. He's said same truly bizarre things over the past couple of years and sadly some really nasty things too. It is beyond distressing seeing the person you know and love behaving in a manner you are not used to. I've come to accept I now live with a very broken version of the man my husband was and try to accept him for who he is now. It's not always easy.
My first suggestion in your family's situation would be to talk to his medical team and let them know your concerns. It could be that the steroid dose needs tweaked. My husband was taking Dexamethasone for a while and it certainly impacted his moods/personality at that time. Also as your dad's surgery was recent, the brain is still healing and the pressure changes in there can have all sorts of effects, hopefully short term. Your dad's medical team are the ones best placed to give you answers here.
This group is a very safe and supportive space so please reach out here anytime. As you've already seen, there's always someone around here to listen, someone who gets it, someone to hold your hand and to offer that virtual hug when its needs. You're ot alone.
It’s always good to talk so please remember that you can also call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, emotional support, benefit and financial guidance or just a listening ear.
I remember the first few weeks after my husband's diagnosis were a scary time. It's a complete emotional rollercoaster ride for everyone involved so please take time to take care of yourself here too. Encourage your mum to do the same. It's not selfish to take time out for yourselves. it's essential as it helps you to process all that's going on and to recharge your batteries to help give you the strength to support your dad.
I hope this has helped a little.
Sending you all a huge hug ( still with some Christmas glitter in there too). Stay strong. Be patient with your dad and yourselves.
love n hugs
Wee Me xx
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
