Concerns About My Mother's Health
My mother, who is 51 years old, weighs approximately 60 kilograms, and stands around 5 feet 4 to 5 feet 5 inches tall, has some health issues that worry me. While I am uncertain about all of her medications, I do know she takes something to manage high blood pressure and also uses prescribed antihistamines. Additionally, she has a troubled past with alcohol abuse. In January of last year, my brother had to call an ambulance for her while I was away from home. He reported that she was displaying manic and hysterical behavior, including throwing objects and banging her head against the wall, an incident which led to her needing stitches on her tongue. In the days prior, she had been bedridden, lacked appetite, slept excessively, and appeared extremely fatigued. To help, I asked my aunt, who lives nearby, to check in on them while waiting for the ambulance. She reported that my mum seemed fine at that moment. Upon arriving at the hospital, the doctors discovered that her sodium levels were critically low—this stands out as a significant detail that I recall. Medical professionals suspected she experienced a seizure, leading to a week-long hospital stay during which numerous blood tests, MRIs, CAT scans, colonoscopies, and a dental examination (due to her gingivitis) were conducted, yet they could not determine the underlying cause, especially as she had no prior history of seizures. Additionally, her arms and legs appeared quite thin. After her release, her health has remarkably declined; she's been frequently ill—at least once every two weeks or several times each month, she finds herself in bed for up to 48 hours experiencing severe shaking and vomiting. Although she has occasional dizzy spells, they don’t match the chaotic episode my brother witnessed last year. I'm really concerned about her wellbeing, as it seems her condition has only worsened since leaving the hospital. Does anyone have any insights or suggestions on what might be happening?
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 10:40:49 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about your mother's health struggles. It's clear that you care deeply for her and are seeking ways to support her during this difficult time. Your mother’s history of low sodium levels, manic episodes, and frequent illnesses certainly warrant ongoing concern and further investigation.
Key Points:
- Your mother has a complex medical history that includes mental health and physical health issues.
- The episodes you describe suggest possible severe underlying conditions, both physically (like dehydration or electrolyte imbalances) and mentally.
- Regular medical follow-up is crucial to manage her conditions effectively.
Explanation:
The combination of her past seizure-like behavior, persistent illnesses, low sodium levels, and the effects of alcohol misuse complicates her health picture. Low sodium can lead to neurological symptoms, including confusion and seizures, and can be influenced by various factors, including medications, diet, and hydration. Furthermore, the manic and hysterical behavior might have connections to underlying mood disorders exacerbated by stressors or substances.
Next Steps:
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Ensure Regular Medical Appointments: It's essential for your mother to have consistent check-ups, preferably with a primary care physician who can manage her overall care. If she's not already doing this, urge her to see a doctor regularly to reevaluate her medications, monitor her blood tests, and address any new or ongoing symptoms.
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Monitor Sodium Levels and Hydration: Encourage her to stay well-hydrated, as dehydration can worsen her sodium levels and worsen health consciousness. You might consider suggesting she maintain a balanced diet high in vegetables and fruits, which can also help maintain electrolyte balance.
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Track Symptoms: Help your mother (and yourself) keep a diary of her symptoms, episodes, and any disturbances in her health. Note the timing, context, and nature of her episodes, which can be valuable for her healthcare provider to understand her condition better.
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Emotional Support: Given her mental health history, check in regularly and encourage her to engage in social activities or professional support if she seems down or withdrawn. If she exhibits signs of distress or increased manic behavior, consider discussing this with her doctor.
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Involve Family: Coordinate with family members, like your aunt or brother, to create a support system. Regular visits and check-ins might not only alleviate your worry but also provide her with the emotional support she may need.
Conclusion:
Your mother’s situation is complex and deserves careful management involving healthcare providers who can address both her physical and mental well-being. Taking these actionable steps can help you support her through this challenging time. Please reach out if you have further questions or if specific symptoms arise. Your concern is valid, and you’re doing the right thing by seeking help.
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