Seeking Advice for Mother's Dizziness, Nausea, and Severe Dry Mouth
My mother, who is 71 years old, has been prescribed Lexapro along with various other antidepressants for over two decades. A couple of months ago, under her doctor’s supervision, she stopped taking all of her medications. For the past few years, she has struggled with her mental health. After trying numerous prescriptions, she decided to see how she would fare without any medication at all. In the beginning, things improved significantly; her mood enhanced, and her thinking was clearer. However, she soon began to experience intense dry mouth. We initially assumed this would subside as her body adjusted to being drug-free, but unfortunately, the condition has only worsened over the past couple of months. Recently, approximately three weeks ago, she has started to feel increasingly nauseous and dizzy, leading her to remain in her chair or bed almost constantly. In these last two weeks, due to her lack of appetite from the nausea, she has lost around 10 pounds. She has visited her primary care physician multiple times and also consulted an ENT specialist, with her appointment with the ENT still a week away. Her primary care doctor recommended that she resume a low dosage (5mg) of Lexapro last Friday. In the past couple of days, she has begun experiencing panic attacks as well. All her blood tests have returned normal, and an ultrasound done for her dry mouth indicated no problems. Yesterday, I suggested that she take some Pepto-Bismol to alleviate her nausea, which provided some relief, but today she is back to feeling unwell. A few days ago, I recommended she stop using the xylitol products she’s been relying on for her dry mouth, as I found information suggesting they might irritate the stomach. She has been using various products such as mouthwash, toothpaste, gum, lozenges, and also those small strips that adhere to the roof of her mouth. I feel quite helpless in this situation and she is feeling disheartened since it seems none of her healthcare providers have concrete suggestions to offer. Any advice on alternative approaches she could consider would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
7/28/2025, 3:02:21 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your mother's struggles with dizziness, nausea, and severe dry mouth. These symptoms can be quite distressing, especially after her decision to stop medications. It's good to know that she's been under the care of her healthcare providers, but I understand how frustrating it can be to seek relief without clear guidance.
Main Points:
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): This can be exacerbated by various factors, including medications, dehydration, and dietary choices.
- Nausea and Dizziness: These symptoms could be linked to her recent medication changes, dietary habits, or underlying conditions.
- Medication Resumption: With the recent resumption of Lexapro, allow some time for her body to adjust.
Explanation:
- Dry Mouth: It's notable that her dry mouth worsened after stopping medications. Since the ultrasound showed no anatomical issues, it's possible that this is a result of her body adjusting or other factors such as dehydration or changes in diet.
- Nausea and Dizziness: These symptoms could be reactions to her anxiety or less intake of food and fluids due to her dry mouth. Stress from recent panic attacks can also contribute to these feelings.
Next Steps:
-
Hydration: Focus on encouraging her to drink fluids regularly, even if in small sips. Hydration is crucial and can help alleviate symptoms of both dry mouth and general malaise. Electrolyte solutions or clear broths may be helpful.
-
Dietary Adjustments: Try to provide soft, easy-to-digest foods that are not irritating. Avoid overly spicy, acidic, or harsh foods and focus on bland options like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet). Keeping food portions small may also encourage her to eat more frequently.
-
Manage Dry Mouth:
- Switch to non-stinging mouth rinses that are explicit for dry mouth. Look for products containing saliva substitutes that might be less irritating.
- Encourage sugar-free lozenges or mints, as they can also stimulate saliva production.
- Consider humidifiers in her living space to help with moisture in the air, which can alleviate symptoms.
-
Mental Health Support: With her recent anxiety and panic attacks, it's essential to have a focus on mental well-being. Engage in calming activities she enjoys, such as gentle music, breathing exercises, or mindful meditation. If available, seeking support from a mental health professional could be beneficial, especially if she struggles during this transitional period.
-
Close Monitoring: Keep a diary of her symptoms, food intake, and any new or worsening symptoms to share with her healthcare providers. This can help pinpoint any possible triggers or patterns related to her symptoms.
Empathy and Reassurance:
It's understandable to feel helpless when a loved one is struggling with health issues, and it’s clear that you care deeply for your mother. You're taking a proactive approach to seek alternatives, which shows great support. Keep being her advocate and reaching out for help when needed. If her symptoms do not improve or worsen, further discussions with her healthcare team will be pivotal, so they may continue adjusting her care plan based on her experiences.
Please keep me updated on how she's doing, and don't hesitate to reach out if you need further assistance or knowledge on supportive interventions.
Related Questions
Understanding Kidney Pain: Should You Be Concerned?
As a 15-year-old assigned female at birth (AFAB), I've been dealing with acid reflux, although I've been neglecting to take any supplements. I also have scoliosis, which I doubt is linked to my current issue. Recently, I have been experiencing pain in my kidney area, specifically in my back, where my kidneys are situated. My mother suggested that this discomfort might indeed stem from my kidneys. For several months now, I haven't pinpointed the cause. I typically consume about 1 to 1.5 liters of water daily, and occasionally I drink cola, though I've reduced that due to my reflux. I sometimes have peach juice or plain tea, but those drinks have become quite infrequent. Despite my fluid intake, it seems my pain level remains consistent regardless of what I drink. The pain primarily affects my right kidney, but during more intense episodes, I also feel discomfort in my left kidney. I've tried lying down and applying gentle pressure to the area, which provides a bit of relief. Aside from occasional bladder discomfort today, I haven't experienced any additional pain that relates to my kidneys, aside from the persistent back pain from scoliosis and the usual stomach and chest pains from my reflux. Is it necessary for me to consult a doctor about this concern? 🥺 I am hesitant to go unless it's truly serious because I was hospitalized last summer due to undiagnosed tics and twitches—likely anxiety-related—and I spent the entire winter seeing doctors for this issue and my scoliosis. I’m also worried about missing school due to more medical appointments, especially since my doctor has a packed schedule, and I'm uncertain if she would prioritize my concern if it doesn't seem urgent. When I was hospitalized last summer, tests including urine and blood analysis showed no significant issues, so I'm unsure whether this warrants another visit now.
Persistent Shin Discomfort
For the past year, I have been grappling with ongoing discomfort in my shins. Despite consulting multiple physiotherapists and doctors, I have yet to find a solution to my problem. My routine has included extensive strength training targeting my hips, glutes, calves, and lower leg muscles. I've also taken steps to improve my running form and have experimented with various recovery techniques, such as foam rolling and using massage devices. No matter what I try, the pain persists, specifically on the inner side of my lower legs. Initially, I suspected that I was suffering from shin splints. However, given my varied attempts at treatment and the lack of improvement, I am starting to believe that the issue might be something different. Even mundane activities, like walking around at home, have become increasingly uncomfortable, not to mention my inability to ride a stationary bike without experiencing pain. If anyone has any insights or recommendations that could assist me in alleviating this issue, I would be extremely grateful. Thank you for your help! I'm a 20-year-old male, standing at 5 feet 8 inches and weighing 70 kilograms.
Experiencing Uncertainty: Possible Ischemic Attack?
Greetings, everyone, including healthcare professionals. For the past year, I've been managing high blood pressure, and I'm currently prescribed a regimen that includes Amlodipine at 10 mg and Bisoprolol at 5 mg. At 44 years old, I’m a woman who is classified as overweight and also deals with hypothyroidism, low ferritin levels, liver issues, and slightly elevated cholesterol levels. Typically, my medications maintain my blood pressure within a range of 110/70 to 140/80. However, two days ago, I experienced a stressful episode, causing my systolic pressure to spike to 155/95. Upon standing, I sensed weakness in my left arm, which felt as if it were slightly twisting. A wave of panic hit me, and I feared I might be incapacitated or having a stroke. Despite my anxiety, I was still able to grasp a glass and tightly close my fist. Briefly, my right arm felt a mild sensation that lasted only a second. This peculiar feeling persisted for roughly a minute. I then consumed some mint tincture mixed with alcohol and engaged in deep breathing exercises, which remarkably alleviated my symptoms and brought my blood pressure back to a stable level. I contacted my physician, who inquired about my symptoms and their duration. Aside from the discomfort in my arm, I wasn't experiencing any additional issues. A second doctor relieved me of any immediate concerns regarding the necessity for an MRI, and since I underwent one a month prior that showed no abnormalities in my cranial blood vessels, I felt some reassurance. Now, back home and with lingering fears of having experienced an ischemic attack, I wonder if an ultrasound of the neck arteries is warranted. Do my symptoms indicate a potential attack? What steps should I take next? Has anyone faced a similar situation? Thank you all for your insights.
Micronodules Detected in Lung
Hello, I recently underwent a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan to assess arterial plaque, and I was pleased to receive a favorable score of 7.75. However, the report highlighted the presence of several clustered micronodules located in the right upper lung, accompanied by adjacent ground-glass opacities. I am a 60-year-old male, 6 feet tall and weigh 190 pounds. I do not currently take any medications and generally enjoy excellent health. There is a family history of heart disease on my father's side. Additionally, I am a non-smoker, apart from occasional use of cannabis, and consume alcohol very infrequently. Thank you in advance for any insights you can provide!
Experiencing Widespread Muscle Weakness
I’m a 36-year-old male and have recently been facing a troubling situation where the muscles throughout my body seem to be losing function—including my eyelids. The trouble began in May 2021 when I lifted a heavy garbage can with my right arm in a shrugging action. Following that, I felt a combination of pain and weakness concentrated in my right shoulder blade, as well as my shoulder and collarbone. Soon after, I noticed my shoulder began to pop and click. Afterward, I consulted with an orthopedic specialist who conducted x-rays on both of my shoulders. He informed me that everything appeared normal and dismissed the popping sounds as inconsequential. I also mentioned experiencing neck pain, but he indicated that addressing neck issues wasn’t his area of expertise. He diagnosed me with bilateral shoulder and neck discomfort and recommended physical therapy. The day after my appointment, I attempted to adjust my position in my desk chair by leaning on the left armrest, putting my forearm under the weight of my body. Suddenly, my shoulder jolted, and I felt a sharp weakness in my arm, accompanied by popping and clicking noises, similar to what happened with my right arm. I reached out to the orthopedic office to inform them about this incident, but the physician assistant who responded said the doctor would not see me again simply due to how I was sitting, and suggested I attend physical therapy first. She mentioned that if I continued to experience weakness, a neurologist might be necessary. Feeling concerned, I returned to my primary care physician for a follow-up appointment and recounted my experience. He didn’t appear worried, and my blood tests returned normal results. During the summer of 2021, I began physical therapy where the therapist diagnosed me with strains in my trapezius and rhomboid muscles. The subsequent therapy sessions consisted of painful exercises and stretches, yet I observed little to no improvement in terms of strength or stability. Activities like using the arm bike and weight machine were excruciating, and I frequently inquired whether my symptoms could be attributed to a tear or nerve damage, but the therapist insisted that was not the case and dismissed my concerns. After my tenth session, I decided it was best not to return. In April 2022, I visited a neurologist. I struggled to lift myself onto the examination table and needed assistance from a step stool. He didn't suspect any neurological issues when I asked him about an EMG or other assessments, he declined to proceed with those tests. Disheartened by these experiences, I chose not to pursue further medical consultations. Fast forward to April 9, 2025, I misstepped while descending some stairs, causing my right heel to catch, and I landed hard with my toes pointed. I had no visible signs of injury such as swelling or bruising, but soon after, I began to experience persistent pain and weakness, especially in my toes and the arch of my foot. By April 13, I instinctively elevated the toes on my left foot, and to my dismay, the same pain and weakness emerged, again without any visible signs like bruising. Since then, both feet have lacked strength, and my big toes feel unusually floppy. In July 2025, I had a troubling experience after having my hair washed at a salon. I held my neck in an awkward position for the duration, which resulted in a burning sensation. Regrettably, I didn’t express my discomfort, fearing a scene. Following this, I noticed significant weakness in the muscles at the front of my neck, under my chin, which gave the appearance of a receding chin. Additionally, my facial muscles, particularly in my cheeks, felt weak and could easily be pressed in with minimal resistance. In January 2026, I bought a new game controller for my laptop, having not played video games for a long time. Initially, it was manageable, but soon after, my hands and forearms began to feel uncomfortable and painful. This discomfort escalated significantly to where I had to discontinue use completely; my hands felt drained of energy and experienced achiness, tingling, and numbness. Then, on February 3, 2026, while seated and using my laptop, I noticed a peculiar sensation when moving my eyes. My eyelid muscles felt weak, and one of my eyelids began twitching. I found it increasingly difficult to open my eyes as widely as I used to. I plan to see a primary care physician once more, but I’m uncertain how to communicate all of this effectively to receive proper care. My circumstances have reached a point where my parents must assist me with everyday tasks, including driving, opening doors, and even lifting light objects. My ability to raise my arms above my head has become severely limited as well.