Paralyzed elderly person refuses to eat and is excessively sleepy

Generally, if paralyzed elderly individuals refuse to eat and experience excessive sleepiness, it may be caused by improper diet, medication side effects, spleen and stomach deficiency, hypoglycemia, cerebral hemorrhage, or other reasons. Patients should seek medical attention at a正规 hospital and receive appropriate treatment based on the specific condition. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Improper Diet

Due to paralysis, elderly individuals may face dietary challenges such as difficulty swallowing or oral discomfort, leading to reduced food intake. However, prolonged lack of eating can result in physical weakness and drowsiness. In such cases, patients may take herbal medicines like Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan (Tonify the Middle and Augment the Qi Pills) or Xiang Sha Yang Wei Wan (Fragrant Sand Nourishing Stomach Pills) as directed by a physician. Additionally, symptoms can be alleviated through massage or warm compresses.

2. Medication Factors

If patients have been taking antipsychotics, sedatives, or similar medications long-term, they may experience drowsiness, along with symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue. These side effects could further contribute to the aforementioned issues. It is recommended that patients adjust their dosage or switch to alternative medications under a doctor's guidance.

3. Spleen and Stomach Deficiency

Poor dietary habits, especially frequent consumption of spicy and irritating foods like chili peppers or wasabi, may damage the spleen and stomach, resulting in loss of appetite, indigestion, and fatigue. Under medical supervision, patients may take traditional Chinese medicines such as Shen Ling Bai Zhu San (Ginseng and Polyporus Powder) or Fu Zi Li Zhong Wan (Prepared Aconite Regulating the Middle Pills). Acupuncture, massage, and tuina therapy may also aid recovery.

4. Hypoglycemia

Paralyzed elderly individuals with diabetes or those using hypoglycemic agents may develop low blood sugar, leading to the above symptoms, as well as tremors and sweating. Management may include reducing medication dosage or, as prescribed, taking medications such as Sotalol Hydrochloride Tablets, Potassium Magnesium Aspartate Tablets, or Arotinolol Hydrochloride Tablets.

5. Cerebral Hemorrhage

Elderly patients with paralysis who also suffer from hypertension or arteriosclerosis may experience increased intracranial vascular pressure, leading to vessel rupture and bleeding. Blood clots may block and compress brain nerves, causing symptoms such as excessive sleepiness and loss of appetite, often accompanied by headache and dizziness. Under medical supervision, drugs such as Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, Mannitol Injection, or Alprostadil for Injection may be used to improve the condition.

It is recommended that elderly patients consume more vegetables and fruits. Adequate rest, emotional stability, and reduced psychological stress are important during treatment. Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided, and patients should not stay up late. Attention should also be paid to enhancing nutritional intake.