Is It Necessary to Urge My Mom to Visit the ER Due to Her Sense of Impending Doom?
My mother, who is 51 years old, 5'5" tall, and weighs 140 pounds, has a variety of health challenges including anxiety, hemorrhoids, iron deficiency, and is currently undergoing tests for fluctuating blood pressure, which has been quite inconsistent. This morning, when I checked in on her, she reacted defensively, urging me to give her space. Concerned, I asked what was troubling her, but she insisted that I just leave her alone. Eventually, she shared that she woke up feeling an intense sense of anxiety, feeling as if something dreadful might occur. When I pressed her for more details, she clarified that it's not an immediate fear, but rather a lingering discomfort stemming from the uncertainty of her blood pressure situation and the pending results for her colonoscopy. The only physical symptom she mentioned was a tingling sensation on her tongue, which hasn’t impacted her ability to speak. I’ve come across numerous sources stating that such feelings should be regarded with seriousness, and I’m seeking guidance on whether I should encourage her to seek emergency assistance. Apologies if this isn’t the appropriate place for my inquiry.
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 6:50:34 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your mother's feelings of impending doom, especially with her complex medical history. While anxiety can sometimes cause sensations and fears that seem overwhelming, your mother’s symptoms and her current health uncertainties warrant careful consideration.
Explanation:
The sense of impending doom can stem from anxiety, but it can also signify something more serious, particularly in individuals with fluctuating blood pressure or ongoing health issues. The tingling sensation in her tongue could also be related to anxiety, but it can sometimes indicate other health concerns requiring attention. Given that she has multiple underlying conditions, it’s important to take her feelings seriously.
Next Steps:
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Encourage Calm Communication: Gently let her know that you are there to support her and express your concern about her feelings. It's essential for her to feel understood and safe to share her thoughts and worries.
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Assess Immediate Symptoms: Ask her if she has any other symptoms that could indicate a more serious issue, such as changes in vision, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe headaches. If she's experiencing any of these, it's critical to seek medical attention right away.
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Consider Seeking Help: Given your mother’s health history and her current feelings of anxiety, it would be reasonable to encourage her to seek help, either by contacting her healthcare provider or visiting the ER, especially if her feelings persist or worsen. You could suggest that she might feel better having a health professional assess her symptoms, particularly concerning her blood pressure and recent tests.
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Monitor Her Condition: Keep an eye on her symptoms. Consider tracking any changes in her feelings, blood pressure readings, and how often she experiences the tingling sensation. This information can be useful for her healthcare provider.
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Encourage Self-Care: Encourage activities that may help reduce her anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises, light physical activity, or any calming routine she enjoys.
Taking her feelings seriously while providing her with support and the option for professional help can create a positive outcome for her well-being.
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