Dizziness and Body Tremors: A Neurological Perspective

Dizziness, whole body tremors?

Hello, Doctor.
Today, when I stood up from a chair to walk, I felt dizzy.
I thought it would gradually improve, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
However, it didn't get better, so I stopped to rest and leaned against the wall.
After that, I started to shake uncontrollably for more than 15 seconds.
I was aware that the shaking was very intense, and I tried to hold onto something stable to prevent myself from falling.
I wanted to call out for help to alert my family, but I couldn't make any sound.
Eventually, I fell to the ground and continued to shake until it stopped.
I have experienced dizziness upon standing before, but this is the first time I have had full-body shaking.
Last night, while sitting in a chair, I also felt slightly dizzy.
I would like to ask for your preliminary diagnosis of this situation.
Thank you!

Ms. Huang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/06

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Tremors and the inability to produce sound are not typical symptoms of common positional vertigo.
These may indicate a transient focal neurological deficit caused by other issues in the brain, and both electrical discharges and ischemia should be considered.
It is recommended to consult a neurologist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/04/06

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, including dizziness and uncontrollable body tremors, can be quite concerning and warrant a thorough evaluation from a medical professional. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced episodes of dizziness when standing up, followed by significant shaking or tremors that lasted for about 15 seconds. This combination of symptoms can be indicative of several underlying neurological or physiological issues.

Firstly, the dizziness you experience upon standing could be related to orthostatic hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure that occurs when you stand up too quickly. This condition can lead to feelings of lightheadedness or faintness. If your body does not adequately compensate for the change in position, it can result in dizziness and even fainting. It is essential to monitor your blood pressure in different positions (lying down, sitting, and standing) to see if there are significant changes.

The uncontrollable body tremors you described could be a form of myoclonus, which is characterized by sudden, involuntary muscle jerks. Myoclonus can be caused by various factors, including neurological disorders, metabolic imbalances, or even anxiety. In your case, the tremors occurring after a dizzy spell may suggest a neurological response to the sudden drop in blood pressure or blood flow to the brain.

Another possibility is that these symptoms could be related to a seizure disorder, particularly if you experienced a loss of control over your body and an inability to call for help. Seizures can manifest in various ways, including shaking, confusion, and loss of consciousness. It would be crucial to discuss this possibility with your healthcare provider, as they may recommend an EEG (electroencephalogram) to assess your brain activity.

Additionally, anxiety and panic attacks can also lead to dizziness and tremors. If you have been under significant stress or have a history of anxiety, this could be a contributing factor. The body's fight-or-flight response can trigger physical symptoms, including shaking and dizziness.

Given that you have experienced these symptoms for the first time, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. A neurologist can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination, neurological assessment, and possibly imaging studies (like an MRI or CT scan) to rule out any structural abnormalities in the brain or nervous system.

In the meantime, it may be helpful to keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and any potential triggers. This information can assist your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis.

In summary, your symptoms of dizziness and body tremors could be related to several potential causes, including orthostatic hypotension, myoclonus, seizure activity, or anxiety. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms worsen or if you experience additional concerning signs, such as loss of consciousness or severe confusion. Your health and safety are of utmost importance.

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