[63F] Experiencing confusion, tingling, and difficulty swallowing

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, a few possible conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or Stroke: Your sudden onset of confusion, difficulty swallowing, stuttering, and arm weakness could be signs of a TIA or stroke. These conditions occur when blood flow to a part of your brain is blocked or reduced, often by a blood clot. The low oxygen levels you've experienced could also be related, as the brain needs a constant supply of oxygen to function properly.

  • Treatment for a TIA or stroke typically involves medications to prevent clots and reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. MS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including tingling or numbness in the limbs, difficulty swallowing, and confusion.

  • Treatment for MS often involves managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease with medications.

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Exacerbation: Your COPD could be worsening, leading to lower oxygen levels and causing some of your symptoms. Stress and other factors can trigger a COPD exacerbation.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to open the airways and improve lung function, as well as oxygen therapy in some cases.

What you can do

Given the sudden onset and severity of your symptoms, it's crucial that you seek immediate medical attention. If you're experiencing a TIA or stroke, prompt treatment can greatly improve your outcome. Even if your symptoms seem to improve, you should still see a doctor right away.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek emergency medical attention:

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful health information, I am not a doctor. You should always seek the advice of a healthcare professional for any health concerns.