In this new episode of “Symptoms”, intern Guillaume Chorao tells the story of a patient rushed to the hospital for a suspicion of cerebrovascular accident (CVA). This 60-year-old lady presented with facial paralysis, motor and speech problems, as well as mental confusion. Despite extensive tests, including an MRI, doctors were unable to identify the cause of these alarming symptoms.
Faced with this medical conundrum, the team decided to re-examine the patient and perform additional blood tests. While waiting for the results, the sixty-year-old is gradually regaining her senses. It was then that she revealed that she had taken benzodiazepines, a medication often used to treat anxiety or sleep problems. “Actually, she overdosed […] She had wanted to take a nap, but she overdosed on this medicine,” explains Dr. Chorao.
Benzodiazepines can cause serious side effects, such as excessive sleepiness, confusion and, in some cases, trouble breathing. This type of medication is often used for its sedative propertiesespecially in situations where patients exhibit extreme agitation. “Sometimes we have patients who are completely hysterical. So we have to tie them to the bed, because in fact they are violent,” adds the intern.
Dr Chorao therefore emphasizes the importance of know the medications taken by loved ones, especially the elderly, to avoid such situations. If an overdose is suspected, it is crucial to contact emergency services immediately and place the person in side safety position while waiting for help to arrive. All information on the risks linked to drug overdoses can be found on the Ministry of Health website.
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