What Causes Terrible Balance Problems And Increasing Memory Loss?

Hello, Your mother is suffering from terrible balance problems and increased memory loss. Her MRI report shows global parenchymal volume loss; it means due to aging process there is decrease in the blood supply to the brain and hence shrinkage in the size of the brain occurs. It causes symptoms like temporary loss of memory, forgetfulness, unsteadiness of gait, fatigue, slurred speech, etc. T2/FLAIR hyperintensities are changes that occur in the brain due to aging and may cause mild to moderate demyelination. The report relates to chronic microangiopathic changes that causes reduced oxygenation to the tissues supplied by the involved blood vessels, it is serious concern as patient may become prone to stroke and other complications. You have not mentioned if she is diabetic. If diabetic she should be examined routinely by health care providers so that blood glucose level is under control at all cost. She needs complete health check up done. Healthcare professionals use diagnostic techniques to observe the signs of microangiopathic changes so that it can be managed at the earliest. Microangiopathy can also affect other organs like heart arteries due to lack of exercise, high cholesterol levels, obesity, smoking, etc. She needs to be put under a physical therapist to maintain vitals normal. She should take balanced home made diet, you can consult a nutritionist. Get her examined clinically by a GP. Get her treated. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician