Ask the doctor: Do you need to see a doctor after a fall?
Depending on what the doctor finds, your mother might be advised to visit the eye doctor, change medications, or see a physical therapist or podiatrist. The doctor should also talk about screening for osteoporosis if your mother hasn't already had a bone density scan. Any older adult who falls should take about 800 IU of vitamin D every day. Vitamin D has been shown to lower the risk of additional falls in people who have already fallen.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.