constant

Tonight I have a question about an alcoholics health. When I last visited my Dad (major drinker) I noticed he was limping. He was also very intoxicated. He drinks from sun up to sun down and then some. Burbon in coffee, then Bloodie's or Srew Drivers about noon switch to beer and then Canadian Club starts late afternoon until he goes to bed.

I asked him about the limp and he said he had hurt his back, but then I noticed his entire left leg was swollen. When he leaned against something the skin would have an indintation there like when you retain fluids during pregnancy. Now I know that he has gout, but I didn't think that would be related. By the time I left two days later......he was much more sober and the swelling was gone.

Of course I didn't say anything to him, but I thought the next time I saw him if it was that way, I would ask him again and suggest a doctor. My sister had to scare the h*ll out of him to get a skin cancer removed from his temple. (she works for a dermatologist) But he did go.....maybe it would work for this to.

I have heard that could be a sign of congenative heart failure or liver trouble......anybody have experience here?


Blessings, Constant

CarolD

I am an alcoholic...who did 6 years of elder care. Not a doctor.

So many maladies could be involved. Alcoholism is really the culprit...in my opinion.

Does your Dad want to quit drinking? If so...please do not let him stop without medical supervision.

I have lost so many friends from booze...heart disease...diabetes..liver mal function...kidney failures. All of those involved swelling/edema.

So pointless.

Hope your Dad gets treatment...Ever considered a profesional intervention?

constant

CarolD, If he does want to quit he has never expressed that desire to me. We have had several "discussions" mostly myself telling why my children can't do things with him. I tell him why, he doesn't deny......the 1st time he did try to get help, but he thought 30 days was a sufficient time to "be clean". I doubt that he even did that.....he lives isolated on the lake, so only he would know if he actually did 30. (this has been several years ago)

He has access to free treatment with his health insurance.(he is retired, but got a great package)
What is professional intervention? I assume it would be something that I would initiate?

Thanks for your input and yes it is SO POINTLESS.
Blessings, Constant

CarolD

Hi Constant..

I think our expert Guy might be the person to ask about exactly how one does an intervention.

One was dome for a friend of mine....I did not set it up.
She was furious...then crying..then quietly listened as
family and friends voiced our concerns.

She agreed to check into rehab and left with the addiction specialist.

No..she has not totally quit drinking. But...90% sober is a heckva lot better than zero.


My best to you and your Dad

constant

90% is definately MUCH better than what he is doing now!!

Thanks!

Constant