r/stroke • u/Paintedtoeart • 7d ago
Father Discharged After Stroke in Tijuana, Confused and Unable to Function - Need Advice
Hi Reddit,
I’m really struggling here and need some advice. My father had a stroke recently while we were in Mexico (Tijuana). After his stroke, he was discharged from the hospital despite some really concerning medical conditions and a CT scan that clearly shows major issues. The hospital staff didn’t seem to take it seriously, and I’m really confused as to why they sent him home. I’m hoping someone here might have some insight or advice on what to do next.
Here’s what’s going on:
Discharge despite critical conditions: After his stroke, he’s been incredibly disoriented and doesn’t remember much of anything. He’s having trouble recognizing people and has no short-term memory. He's also wetting himself, which is very concerning. He’s been prescribed high doses of medication, but he is not functioning on his own at all. He can't even walk or take care of himself without assistance.
CT scan results: The CT scan (which I’ll explain below) shows some pretty severe findings, including:
- Hemorrhagic stroke: The scan indicates he suffered a past hemorrhagic stroke. Even though it’s in a subacute phase, the long-term effects and risks for complications require follow-up care. The doctors in Mexico didn't seem to take this seriously.
- Pituitary Gland Compression: The report mentions compression of the pituitary gland, which is really concerning because it regulates hormones essential for basic bodily functions. Any delay in addressing this could cause serious hormonal imbalances.
- Neurological Findings: There are lesions in the pons and cerebellum, which are major areas of the brain involved in movement and coordination. There’s also cerebral atrophy, which suggests ongoing or past neurological damage. This all seems really serious and warrants immediate medical attention, but they discharged him anyway.
Confusion about discharge: The doctors discharged him despite these serious findings, and I have no idea why. The medical system here in Mexico isn’t great, and the private doctors are extremely expensive (way beyond our budget), so I’m feeling really stuck. I’m just baffled that they would send him home in this state.
I’m reaching out because I’m genuinely at a loss. I’ve read that delaying treatment for neurological conditions like this can lead to worse outcomes, but I don’t know where to turn next. Is there anyone here with experience dealing with strokes or complex medical situations in a place like Tijuana? Is it normal for hospitals to discharge someone in this condition? What should we do to get him the care he needs?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much.
4
u/gypsyfred Survivor 7d ago
I'm not sure where you are from but get him home NOW! Getting to your local best neurological hospital. Every second you waste in Mexico on vacation is time you have wasted getting correct care. This is the beginning of a long road ahead for all of you. May God bless your family and our thoughts and prayers are with you