Persistent Mania and Psychosis in My Mother Following Surgery
I'm reaching out to see if anyone can provide guidance or comfort regarding my mother's situation. She is 49 years old and has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder type II. Recently, she underwent spinal surgery for the removal of pins and rods, but a week later, a second procedure was necessary to reopen her scar tissue to investigate for potential infection. Since the initial operation, my mother has experienced alarming confusion and has gone through episodes of mania and psychosis. During the times when she isn’t showing these extreme symptoms, she has completely lost her appetite and is unable to hydrate herself. Activities she once enjoyed, such as watching television or listening to music, are now nonexistent; instead, she often just sits, staring vacantly or pacing the house aimlessly. Her mind seems fixated on past traumatic experiences, affecting her speech, which has become very unusual. She tends to repeat phrases and speaks slowly, often using isolated words. The essence of her former self appears to have vanished entirely. It has been a month since her surgery, characterized by frequent trips to hospitals and mental health facilities; however, there has been no noticeable improvement. Her mood oscillates, stabilizing for a couple of days before plunging back into mania, only to stabilize again briefly. Medical professionals have suggested that her symptoms could be stemming from a negative reaction to the combination of steroids and anesthesia used during her surgeries. Is it possible for such reactions to persist for several months? It’s now been five weeks, and I’m feeling helpless as I try to support her. I’m unable to focus on work, constantly anxious about her wandering off and posing a danger to herself. Are these symptoms typical post-operative effects, or might they indicate a deeper issue?
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 1:20:57 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm so sorry to hear about the difficult situation you and your mother are facing. The symptoms you're describing following her recent surgeries are concerning and understandably distressing. It's important to recognize that your mother is going through a challenging time, and you are doing your best to support her.
Main Points:
- Post-operative Confusion and Mood Changes: It is possible for some individuals to experience prolonged symptoms such as confusion, mania, or psychosis after surgery, especially with the use of certain medications like steroids and anesthesia.
- Monitoring and Immediate Care: Close monitoring of her symptoms and ensuring she stays safe is crucial at this time.
Explanation:
After major surgeries, especially involving anesthesia and medications like steroids, some individuals can experience cognitive changes, altered mood, and even psychotic symptoms. These reactions can be more pronounced in someone with a pre-existing mental health condition, like bipolar disorder. The stress of surgery, pain, and potential changes in medication can all contribute to these symptoms. While some post-operative effects can improve in a few days to weeks, they may persist longer in some individuals, particularly if there are complications or underlying factors at play.
Specific Next Steps:
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Safety First: Ensure that your mother is in a safe environment where she cannot harm herself. If you have concerns about her wandering off or engaging in harmful behaviors, consider having someone stay with her or using safety measures (like locks on doors).
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Hydration and Nutrition: Encourage her to drink fluids and eat small, nutritious meals, even if her appetite is low. You can offer her favorite foods or snacks that are easy to consume. If she struggles significantly, consider consulting with her healthcare provider about possible nutritional supplements that might help.
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Regular Monitoring & Engagement: Observe her behaviors and mood shifts carefully. Keeping a journal of her symptoms can help you track changes and provide valuable information to her healthcare providers. Try to engage her with simple activities that she might have once enjoyed, breaking them down into manageable parts, even if it's just listening to music together or watching something briefly.
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Communicate with Healthcare Providers: Maintain regular contact with her doctors about any changes in her mental state and the effectiveness of medications. It's important to keep them informed about her symptoms, as they may need to adjust her treatment or medication regimen.
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Focus on Self-Care: It's natural to feel anxious and overwhelmed. Finding small moments to care for yourself can help you provide better support. Consider mindfulness techniques or seeking support from friends or support groups for caregivers.
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Ask About Support Resources: Inquire if there are inpatient or support programs that focus on patients with bipolar disorder and their specific post-operative needs, as this might be beneficial.
Your concerns are valid, and it's essential to take them seriously. Keep advocating for your mother's health, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
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