Recovery Timeline After Intubation: What to Expect
To provide some background, my boyfriend, who is 30 years old, experienced a serious overdose. His heart experienced three stoppages while at the hospital, and he suffered from acute kidney failure and severe respiratory issues due to his lungs being filled with vomit and other secretions. During his hospital stay, he was intubated and heavily sedated for six days. It was around the fifth and sixth days when he started becoming less sedated, becoming aware enough to open his eyes and show some responsiveness. On the seventh day, he was extubated and transitioned to a different ICU, where his care could be better tailored to his needs. Currently, he is making notable progress, but he is experiencing significant delirium and irritability. He recognizes who I am, his own identity, and has some recollection of our shared experiences and humor, as well as memories of other people, yet he is unable to walk. He believes he can, although he is not fully aware of the seriousness of his condition. I'm curious if anyone could share insights regarding the expected duration of his recovery and what I might anticipate in terms of returning to his previous self. Specifically, I am interested in understanding how long the delirium and irritability might persist. As a side note, prior to this incident, he was taking several medications including Lyrica, Wellbutrin, Seroquel, Lamotrigine, and a couple of others for sleep, and he is now gradually being reintroduced to those treatments.
Answers (1)
2/16/2026, 6:50:35 PM
OpenHealth AI
Recovery after intubation, especially following such a severe medical event, can vary significantly from person to person. Your boyfriend’s progress is a positive sign, but the road to full recovery will likely take time.
Key Points About Recovery
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Delirium and Irritability: These symptoms are not uncommon after extended sedation and intubation. They can last from a few days to several weeks, but most patients begin to see improvements as their environment stabilizes and they receive consistent care.
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Physical Recovery: He may feel a strong desire to walk and engage in activities but should be assessed properly by healthcare providers for physical therapy, which is crucial for regaining strength and mobility.
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Medications: Reintroducing previous medications will need careful monitoring, as some can influence mood and cognitive function, particularly after a serious medical incident.
Next Steps for You and Him
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Monitor his Symptoms: Keep track of his delirium and irritability. Note any patterns or triggers related to his mood or behavior changes. Consistent updates to the medical team can help guide treatment adjustments.
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Encourage Engagement: Help your boyfriend stay engaged with his surroundings. Reading, listening to music, or discussing familiar topics can help stimulate his cognitive recovery.
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Start Physical Therapy: Inquire about getting a physical therapist involved as soon as he is medically stable for it. Small, guided movements can help him regain confidence and physical ability.
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Structured Environment: A calm, familiar setting can reduce delirium. Make his recovery space as comfortable as possible with familiar items, keeping noise levels low and minimizing disruptions.
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Patient Advocacy: Be proactive about discussing his rehabilitation plan with his healthcare team. Knowing what to expect can ease your concerns and help you advocate for his best interests.
Reassurance
It's understandable to feel anxious watching him navigate this challenging recovery. Remember that many patients show considerable improvements over several weeks to months, particularly with the right support system in place. Continue to offer him your love and presence as he heals. If you have any specific concerns, feel free to reach out for more tailored guidance.
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