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Suggest Treatment For Persistent Chest Infection, Low TLC Count And Difficulty Breathing

Posted on Mon, 13 Oct 2014

Question: My mother 82 had a bypass surgery done about 3 weeks back. Doctors had to re open immediately next day to remove a blood clot. Subsequently she had difficulty in expanding lungs and un assisted breathing. We were told that earlier chest infection increased and she took about 12 days in hospital to return home. After 4 days at home she is again in ICU as her oxygen saturation was again low and we are told that chest infection persisted. Now , she is responding better to treatment and her TLC count in last 3 days has come down from 35,000 to 19,000. Do such situations happen in other cases and will recovery be satisfactory.
Thanks a lot
XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
situations uncommon, but age dependent

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.

Looking at the clinical history and query, my opinion is as follows:
1. Reinfection chances or continued infection is uncommon, but in the elderly due to subdued symptoms and reduced immunity, it can be seen.

2. Bypass at 82 years is a risky procedure. However, now that there is no operative complications, nothing much to worry.

3. Reducing leukocyte count with improvement in oxygen saturation suggests improving lung functions. She should recover shortly.

4. Recovery should be satisfactory. Postoperative mobility, family support, social interaction, regular medication and mild exercises should help her more.

Hope it helps.

Any further queries, happy to help again.

Dr. Prakash HM

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar