My mother cant swallow, isnt awake much, hospitalized, MRI shows not a stroke, only answer so far-dehydration?

Question

she is 78 years old, was fine last week, then became weaker,,,, went into the hospital a few days ago,,didnt seem to have any stroke symtoms to me,,,,, and they have ruled that out, just wondering if anyone has any idea of what might be going on, she has been being treated for a foot infection during last few weeks,,,,,,was on a iv antibiotic for couple of weeks at home, before hospitalization

Answer 1

Although it would be unlikely, it could be myasthenia gravis. It's an autoimmune disease that can make swallowing impossible because your body attacks itself. Sometimes it attacks people's vision, sometimes, their throat and tongue muscles. Usually it does not stay permanently, or at least not in an intolerable way. My father in law (76 yo) could not talk or swallow, and the doctors assumed he had minor strokes. After a couple of weeks, they realized it was myasthenia gravis. He's doing OK now, but he can't work 60 hour weeks anymore. Good luck, whatever it is.

Answer 2

It may be she has sepsis which is an infection in the blood, possible source would be her foot and that does cause dehydration, weakness, confusion, non-responsiveness.
Usually after a few days of antibiotic treatment patients can improve tremendously.
They do blood cultures to determine the culprit organism and correct antibiotic treatment.

Answer 3

she could have sepsis.. an infection in her blood.. it may also lead to toxic/metabolic encephalopathy which could account for her deterioration/stuporous state. if shes in the hospital and diagnosed with dehydration it could be an indication that shes fighting an infection and her metabolics are messed up..

Answer 4

dont give up just hope that your mother is going to be alright. pray to god maybe that will help. remember there are always a reason for why things happen.