Dizziness: Causes and Concerns After a Cold

Dizziness condition?

Hello, I have a cold these days and have seen a doctor and taken medication.
However, I occasionally feel dizzy, particularly at the back of my head near the top.
Sometimes, the back of my head feels cool.
What could be the reason for this? Thank you.

A-Hsien, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/04

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, experiencing unusual sensations in the back of your head after taking cold medication may be due to a decrease in peripheral vascular tone caused by neural reflexes, leading to blood pooling in peripheral tissues and insufficient blood flow to the brain.
Alternatively, it could be due to nerve compression in the neck causing neuropathic pain.
I recommend consulting a neurologist for evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Tao, Shen Nei, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2016/05/04

More Info

Dizziness after a cold can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and when to seek further medical attention. After experiencing a cold, many individuals report symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or a sensation of imbalance. These symptoms can arise from several factors related to the cold itself or its aftermath.

One common cause of dizziness following a cold is viral labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, which is an inflammation of the inner ear structures that help control balance. This condition can occur after a viral infection, including those caused by the common cold. Symptoms may include a spinning sensation (vertigo), imbalance, and sometimes hearing changes. If you are experiencing dizziness that feels like the room is spinning, it may be worth discussing this with your healthcare provider.

Another possible cause is post-viral fatigue or malaise, which can occur after any viral infection. This condition can leave you feeling unusually tired and may contribute to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. It is essential to ensure you are getting adequate rest, hydration, and nutrition during your recovery.

Dehydration is another factor that can lead to dizziness, especially if you have had a fever or have not been drinking enough fluids while sick. Ensure you are staying well-hydrated, as dehydration can significantly impact your overall well-being and contribute to feelings of dizziness.

Additionally, sinus congestion or pressure can lead to dizziness. When you have a cold, the sinuses can become inflamed and congested, which may affect your balance and lead to a sensation of dizziness. If you are experiencing significant sinus pressure, consider using saline nasal sprays or decongestants (if appropriate) to relieve the congestion.

It's also worth noting that if you are experiencing dizziness accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as severe headache, visual disturbances, or persistent vomiting, you should seek medical attention promptly. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that requires evaluation.

In summary, dizziness after a cold can be attributed to several factors, including inner ear inflammation, post-viral fatigue, dehydration, and sinus pressure. While many cases of dizziness will resolve as you recover from your cold, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. If the dizziness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Remember to take care of yourself during your recovery, ensuring you are well-hydrated and rested, and do not hesitate to reach out to a medical professional if you have any concerns.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Dizziness: Causes and Solutions After a Cold

Hello, doctor... Since I caught a cold and had a fever on the 23rd of last month, I've been feeling dizzy, heavy-headed, and lethargic, constantly wanting to sleep. After more than two weeks, the cold symptoms and dizziness improved, but shortly after the dizziness subsided,...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
Dear Mr. Anonymous: 1. Dizziness can generally be categorized into four types: vertigo, presyncope, disequilibrium, and lightheadedness. Research statistics indicate that the most common diagnosis among these is vertigo. 2. The causes of dizziness are numerous. For example: ort...

Understanding Dizziness After Cold Symptoms: Causes and Concerns

Last Thursday morning, I felt discomfort in my throat and didn't see a doctor until Saturday. He said it was the early symptoms of a cold and that I might develop a fever. By Monday afternoon (today), I had an exam and after sitting for about an hour, I got up to submit my p...

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine
There are many causes of dizziness. It is recommended to first consult your family physician to evaluate the possible underlying causes, which will allow for appropriate follow-up treatment. Please note: online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cann...

Persistent Dizziness After Cold: Should You Get Checked?

I have been feeling dizzy lately and experiencing a sensation of fever, but my weight remains stable. These symptoms have persisted since I recovered from a cold. Should I consider getting an examination?

Dr. Lai Lunxiang reply Neurology
Dizziness can be caused by various conditions. Based on your complaint of persistent dizziness accompanied by a fever, you may have a cold. Monitor your symptoms for a few days, and if the dizziness persists, please visit the outpatient clinic for further evaluation.

Understanding Dizziness After a Cold: Causes and Remedies

I have been experiencing a cold for over a week, during which I had a fever for about 3 to 4 days, but the fever has now subsided. My cough and nasal congestion symptoms have improved somewhat, but I have recently noticed persistent dizziness that has lasted for almost 4 days. My...

Dr. Chen Junliang reply Otolaryngology
Xiaolin: You mentioned that one to two weeks after your cold, you experienced symptoms of nausea and dizziness, which is most likely due to a respiratory infection causing a recurrence of vestibular neuritis. Generally, you will need to take B vitamins, mild sedatives, and medica...