Expert: Stacey Lloyd - 8/7/2006

Question
my mom is 59, has been in the hospital twice in 2 mo. once for pnemona and again because she just couldnt breath. she is on costant oxygen at home and was sent home with a BiPap she cant even bath herself any more. she lives far away and doesnt always tell me how bad things really are. is she closer to death than i think? and is intabation the next step after bipap?

Answer
Amber,

This resource may help you find the information you're seeking.

http://www.theberries.ns.ca/Archives/CPAP.html

As far as "being closer to death", that's a question I cannot answer -- no one can.

I hope the resource above gives you some insight into your mother's condition. Please write back if you have any further questions.

Stacey Lloyd
Lung Diseases Guide
About.com
http://lungdiseases.about.com