Falls Flashcards
Causes
MSK Incontinence --> rush to bathroom Drugs Neurological Sensory Cardiovascular Generally unwell
MSK Causes of falls
Arthritis of weight bearing joints
Deformities
Sarcopenia (wasting)
Drug causes of falls
Antihypertensives
Sedatives
Alcohol
Neurological causes of fall
Stroke - old and new Parkinsonism Dementia Delirium Ataxia (Seizure TIA)
Sensory causes of falls
Visual impairment
Inattention
Cardio
Postural hypotension
Arrythmia - sudden dizziness, presyncope
Heart Failure
Aortic Stenosis
Drugs
Decrease BP, HR, Awareness
Increase urine output, Sedation, Hallucinations, qTC, Dizziness
- AntiHT, B blocker, Sedatives, Anticholinergics, Opioids, Alcohol
History
No memory –> Dementia/Syncope/Seizure - Timing
Mechanical - Query peripheral neuropathy
Turning –> Postural instability –> Physio
On exertion –> Aortic stenosis
Seizure markers - lost period of time
Kyphosis as risk factor
Centre of gravity outside chest
High stepping
Indicates peripheral neuropathy
What substance can cause Cerebellar Damage
Alcohol
Arthralgic
Limping - arthritis
Hemiplegic
Stroke
No arm swing on one side
Small steps, shuffling gait?
Parkinsonism
Short length one side, foot externally rotated
Broken hip
Masked by dementia
