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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Slurring And Confusion At Times?

I have a 94 yr old mother who appears alert and clear at times but have noticed increased episodes of slurring and confusion at times. Last night she slept for 5pm until 10am, was okay when she awoke but as of this afternoon is completed disoriented, confused and staring at times in the air. Any ideas? She is not in pain.
Wed, 24 Sep 2014
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hello,
this sounds like dementia. Is she taking any drugs? Particularly any benzodiazepines or other central nervous system drugs?
As we age, our brains tend to shrink. Some individuals worsen faster than others.
At this age (94 years) not many have adequate cognitive function. Their brains are like a damaged car engine. The engine may accelerate the car when the road is level but it may be too weak to pull the car on an uphill road.
I could not rule out other diagnoses (stroke for example) but the lack of relevant symptoms and information wouldn't allow for it.
I think you should take her to a neurologist, who will be able to conduct some clinical (and/or radiological) tests to assess her status.
I hope I've given you some direction!
If you need further clarifications on the subject, please let me know.
Kind Regards!
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What Causes Slurring And Confusion At Times?

Hello, this sounds like dementia. Is she taking any drugs? Particularly any benzodiazepines or other central nervous system drugs? As we age, our brains tend to shrink. Some individuals worsen faster than others. At this age (94 years) not many have adequate cognitive function. Their brains are like a damaged car engine. The engine may accelerate the car when the road is level but it may be too weak to pull the car on an uphill road. I could not rule out other diagnoses (stroke for example) but the lack of relevant symptoms and information wouldn t allow for it. I think you should take her to a neurologist, who will be able to conduct some clinical (and/or radiological) tests to assess her status. I hope I ve given you some direction! If you need further clarifications on the subject, please let me know. Kind Regards!