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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Remedy For Memory Loss In An Elderly Person

My 97 year old mother has made a dramatic change in her memory loss in the past few days. There is always a repetition in her questioning but the past week, the issue has worsened and she is more confused than usual. Should I be on alert for an upcoming stroke, etc.?
Tue, 20 Jan 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Worsening dementia symptoms can occur for different reasons such as : (1)electrolyte disturbance (abnormal sodium , calcium, magnesium etc)

(2)kidney disease with high urea, creatinine

(3)infections

(4)dehydration

(5)stroke

If there are significant changes then you may want consider taking her to her doctor for assessment.

I hope this helps
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General & Family Physician,  Dr. Jessie Lamberty's  Response
Thank you for your question. Memory problems are a complex issue, particularly in the elderly. An acute change in mental status warrants a full medical evaluation. Not only could it be related to the brain, but infections like a urinary tract infection can increase confusion and lead to severe infections or sepsis. I would recommend she sees her physician as soon as possible or go to the emergency room if she is unable to within 24 hours.
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Suggest Remedy For Memory Loss In An Elderly Person

HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Worsening dementia symptoms can occur for different reasons such as : (1)electrolyte disturbance (abnormal sodium , calcium, magnesium etc) (2)kidney disease with high urea, creatinine (3)infections (4)dehydration (5)stroke If there are significant changes then you may want consider taking her to her doctor for assessment. I hope this helps