Question: Greetings,
What might cause a sudden onset of jerking head movements in a female aged 86? She is in assisted living. I am wondering if this merits immediate medical attention or a regular medical appoint which is scheduled one week from today.

Thank you

Greetings Dr. Panwar,

Thank you for your quick response. The patient (my mother) has had no known diseases or history of diseases other than bladder cancer which was solved by surgery in 2014.

The jerking movement has evidenced over the past month. It is not an episodic occurrence so much as movement of her head when looking at something or responding to a question. It is currently continuous, but has never been evident until recently (past month). She is experiencing loss of appetite, though maintaining nourishment with Ensure and vitamins/medications. I have noticed some increased confusion and memory lapse, though this might be attributable to her age. She has experienced no changes in vision, no headaches, no impairment to functionality within her capabilities, and no significant (to my observation) cognitive decline. She says she feels good.

Unfortunately, I do not have the capability to send you a video, sorry.

I have made an appointment with her physician for January 26, 2017, who I expect will confirm your referral to a neurologist and who I suspect may change her appetite enhancement medication which has happened before.

My primary question for your expertise is whether you believe it is okay to wait until January 26 or whether, in your opinion (considering the limitations of online communication) this should have medical attention sooner. I can call her medical provider's advice line which is staffed by a nurse, though thought I would avail myself of MD expertise beforehand.

Thank you for your time and best regards,
XXXX