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What Causes Dizziness, Low Body Temperature And Slurred Speech In Old Age?

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Posted on Thu, 12 Feb 2015
Question: 81 year old woman returned from New Zealand Dec. 30th and has been dizzy, low body temperature (94 degrees), slurred speech and clammy skin. Blood infection has been ruled out, along with cardiac issues.
Symptoms most prevalent in the morning but, after taking a simple aspirin feels better.
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Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Possible autonomic dysfunction.

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mam,

I understand your query and concern.

The symptoms mentioned could possibly explain orthostatic hypotension.

This could be a form of autonomic dysfunction secondary to low body water content.

Since Blood infection and cardiac issues are ruled out,this should not be a major concern.

Tilt table testing can help to make the diagnosis.

I also recommend you to get early morning serum cortisol levels to rule out Addison's disease,which can present similarly.

Treatment largely consists of intake of at least 3-4 liters of water a day.

Intake of dietary salt >6gms/day is recommended.

Drugs like Fludrocortisone will help to improve the symptoms pretty effectively.

Post your further queries,if any.
Thank you.
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Suresh Heijebu

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2010

Answered : 3646 Questions

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What Causes Dizziness, Low Body Temperature And Slurred Speech In Old Age?

Brief Answer: Possible autonomic dysfunction. Detailed Answer: Hi Mam, I understand your query and concern. The symptoms mentioned could possibly explain orthostatic hypotension. This could be a form of autonomic dysfunction secondary to low body water content. Since Blood infection and cardiac issues are ruled out,this should not be a major concern. Tilt table testing can help to make the diagnosis. I also recommend you to get early morning serum cortisol levels to rule out Addison's disease,which can present similarly. Treatment largely consists of intake of at least 3-4 liters of water a day. Intake of dietary salt >6gms/day is recommended. Drugs like Fludrocortisone will help to improve the symptoms pretty effectively. Post your further queries,if any. Thank you.