could this be Alzheimers (sp)

[dolphindolphin1]

DM in her 80's was really confused last night. She is normally really coherant. The only other time she was like this was after a stoke. Dsis took her to hospital where they did ecg and checked urine which was fine. Than sent her home and asked to see GP. Her hospital doesn't fill me with confidence as we feel they missed her 1st mini stroke and nearly missed her full blown one.
Not sure whether she is still confused this morning. Goint to visit later.
Any advice appreciated.

sudden confusion usually has a more acute cause, often even physical such a a fall, an infection or a stroke.

Alzheimers will usually result in more gradual changes in behaviour including confusion but also forgetfulness, anger/irritability and loss of inhibitions.

So if still confused push for more investigations including bloods. UTIs and anaemia are common causes of confusion in the elderly

Thank you madmouse. They did test for uti but didn't do bloods. She was fine today. I suspect it could be another stroke. Although fortunately there doesn't appear to be any lasting damage from this one. Will take her to gps next week. Very relieved though.

It does sound like a mini stroke/TIA. It's important your DM does get checked at the hospital or her GP's surgery. They usually advise taking aspirin to help prevent further strokes.

I don't know if she is on aspirin already? Her blood pressure should also be checked.

Blood pressure is high at moment. You are right I think it probably was a mini stroke. I was not impressed at hospital as they discounted that. Think when wee go to gp I will request a ct scan. Bearing in mind at least one mini stroke/tia was missed and her 1st full blown one was missed by junior doctor. it took them about 36 hours to even send her for a ct scan. So much for when stoke strikes act fast.