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Hi I Have A Friend Who Overdosed He Is In

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Posted on Mon, 27 May 2019
Twitter Mon, 27 May 2019 Answered on
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Question : hi I have a friend who overdosed he is in critical condition icu on life support the neurologist says he has brain swelling and minimal brain movement what would you say the prognosis will be and how long should we wait
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
The prognosis seems reserved.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor " service.

I have read your query and here is my advice.

Since there is brain swelling, it means that the brain tissue ( neurons ) suffered long enough to be damaged from lack of oxygen.

In such cases the prognosis is reserved and, if there are not improvements in a week or so, it is difficult to predict the outcome.

Brain studies such as MRI and EEG are tools that may serve as predictors for the prognosis.

Discuss with the treating Neurologist for these issues.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4492 Questions

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Hi I Have A Friend Who Overdosed He Is In

Brief Answer: The prognosis seems reserved. Detailed Answer: Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor " service. I have read your query and here is my advice. Since there is brain swelling, it means that the brain tissue ( neurons ) suffered long enough to be damaged from lack of oxygen. In such cases the prognosis is reserved and, if there are not improvements in a week or so, it is difficult to predict the outcome. Brain studies such as MRI and EEG are tools that may serve as predictors for the prognosis. Discuss with the treating Neurologist for these issues. Hope you found the answer helpful. Let me know if I can assist you further.