Hi, last week the ambulance was here because my Mom was passing out and I grabbed her before she fell down. I walked her to a chair (she had problems walking) and made her sit down then I called 911. They did an EKG and other tests and told me privately they thought she had a TIA (mini-stroke).
Twice in the past couple of days she told me that she can't see out of her left eye. Could this be from the TIA if she did have one?
I just called and left a message with her ophthalmologist who she hasn't seen in years due to her having 20/20 vision after cataract surgery years ago. Waiting to hear back.
The EMT's think it's possible that she may suffer a major stroke.
If the ophthalmologist can't see her right away should I bring my Mom to the ER?
Thanks, Jenna
A lot has changed since that time so I don't know whether or not the hospital and the Clinic are still affiliated, but from my limited experience with a neighbor whose husband had complex eye issues, he spent a lot of time in the Clinic, undergoing complicated procedures during diagnostic attempts.
I hope that whatever is diagnosed can be controlled and that your mother is stabilized when you return from the ER. Please continue to give us updates?
This would be EMERGENT care even if just the eye symptom. But as there is the other she will likely go from there straight to neuro. There will be a doppler test done on the carotids. If it is TIAs then to prevent a stroke they will likely want to do a carotid endarterectomy. But first comes diagnosis. The opthalmologist may send Mom, after negative exam, straight to ER or to her doctor for emergent care clinic.
I would go to ER in this case. Like NOW.
I do need to say, having cataracts done does not mean u stop going to an eye doctor. The lens need to be checked regularly. You are still susceptible to deseases such as glocoma. A good eye doctor, MD, will find things wrong with an eye in the early stages before they cause damage.
Best of luck getting her treated. I pray that she is okay, you too.
Yes, an ER trip is in order because of the stroke potential.
Edited to add: This happened recently to my ex-MIL while she was driving.