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What Causes Spells?
My mother-in-law who is 70 years old has been having spells, where she gets lightheaded and she feels like the room is spinning then she breaks out in a sweat. She is a little over 5ft tall and the last time that i knowshe was weighed was last october and she weighted 283lbs. What could be causing these spells. She was also in an vechile acciendent about 6 or 7 years ago where she hit her head on the windsheild.
Tue, 24 Jun 2014
Hi,
I can think of two possible things with the given history.
1. Postural hypotension
2. Anxiety attacks
It appears to be most probably postural hypotension, as it is commonly seen in older age as baro receptor take more time to adjust the blood pressure. She needs to get up slowly to offset the slow adjustment. Rapid movement from sleeping to standing or sitting to standing should be avoided.
There is always a risk of fall, so avoid any sharp items surrounding her. A cane might to needed for extra balance, especially with her being overweight.
Anxiety stress could be there dependent on history. If she has anxiety attacks, meet a psychiatrist.
Weight reduction is essential as there can be numerous complications like osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, fractures, cardiac and respiratory problems etc
Old vehicle accident cannot possibly be a cause now.
Any further queries happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
I can think of two possible things with the given history.
1. Postural hypotension
2. Anxiety attacks
It appears to be most probably postural hypotension, as it is commonly seen in older age as baro receptor take more time to adjust the blood pressure. She needs to get up slowly to offset the slow adjustment. Rapid movement from sleeping to standing or sitting to standing should be avoided.
There is always a risk of fall, so avoid any sharp items surrounding her. A cane might to needed for extra balance, especially with her being overweight.
Anxiety stress could be there dependent on history. If she has anxiety attacks, meet a psychiatrist.
Weight reduction is essential as there can be numerous complications like osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, fractures, cardiac and respiratory problems etc
Old vehicle accident cannot possibly be a cause now.
Any further queries happy to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
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