What are common problems related to an ICU stay?
Many people experience problems after going home from ICU – this is common. Some problems are related to their initial reason for being in the ICU and some of these are related to experiencing ICU delirium.
Getting back to normal after going home can take time. The following are some common problems related to and ICU stay and/or having ICU delirium that can happen after leaving the hospital:
- feeling very weak
- feeling tired (fatigue)
- having trouble sleeping or having bad dreams, insomnia
- changes in mood such as feeling anxious or feeling depressed
- having memory problems or trouble thinking (called cognitive impairment)
- having trouble with day-to-day activities such as following a recipe, doing simple tasks at home, or going back to work
- speech problems
Post-intensive care syndrome also known as PICS is a newer term that describes these symptoms. We don’t know the exact cause of PICS, but having ICU delirium may be a risk factor. If you or your loved one have these symptoms, talk to a healthcare provider to find out if they are related to a recent ICU stay or something else.
For more information
- Health Link (health advice 24/7): Call 811
