Two Weeks of Dizziness: Neurological Symptoms and Treatment

Q: Two Weeks of Dizziness: Neurological Symptoms and Treatment

Hello, Yuki： Based on your description, your condition seems to be paroxysmal dizziness, accompanied by 1) occasional headaches and 2) a leftward tilt of the body that has persisted for 3-4 years. <br>You are concerned whether the past use of antiepileptic medication may have cau

Dizziness for two weeks?

I have been experiencing dizziness for two weeks now, and I have seen a doctor who diagnosed me with vertigo.
My symptoms are that I feel fine when I wake up in the morning, but once I get to school and start my first or second class, I begin to feel dizzy.
My vision is clear, but I feel like everything is spinning, and I tend to lean to the left.
Occasionally, I experience mild headaches, but they are gradually subsiding.
This dizziness only occurs when I am sitting; when I stand up, I don't feel it, although I sometimes feel a bit unbalanced and lean to the left.
After taking medication for two weeks, the doctor adjusted my prescription, and on the second day of the new medication, I started feeling very dizzy while standing.
I first experienced dizziness about 3 or 4 years ago and took medication for two weeks.
In late April of this year, I had a cold and also felt a bit dizzy, for which I took medication.
Then, starting in late May, I have been experiencing dizziness continuously for two weeks.
Additionally, I had epilepsy as a baby and was on medication for 7 to 8 years; could this be related?

Youji, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/05

Dr. Yang Shenggong reply Neurology

Hello, Yuki: Based on your description, your condition seems to be paroxysmal dizziness, accompanied by 1) occasional headaches and 2) a leftward tilt of the body that has persisted for 3-4 years.
You are concerned whether the past use of antiepileptic medication may have caused the dizziness.
Common potential causes of recurrent dizziness include: 1) Meniere's disease: which may also present with tinnitus, a feeling of fullness in the ear, or hearing loss; 2) Cervicogenic dizziness caused by neck and shoulder muscle issues: which may involve stiffness or pain in the neck and shoulders; 3) Stress-induced dizziness: triggered by emotional factors; 4) Dizziness due to migraines; 5) Dizziness caused by cerebral epilepsy; 6) Other diseases related to the cerebellum or vestibular cochlear system.
There are many types of antiepileptic medications that can indeed be associated with dizziness, but symptoms often improve after discontinuation of the medication.
If your dizziness occurred several years after stopping the medication, the correlation is likely minimal.
I recommend that you visit a trusted or nearby neurology clinic for evaluation, such as Dr.
Yang Sheng-gong at Changhua Hospital's Neurology Department.

Reply Date: 2016/06/05

More Info

Dizziness can be a perplexing and distressing symptom, especially when it persists for two weeks, as you have described. It is essential to understand that dizziness can stem from various causes, including vestibular disorders, neurological issues, or even medication side effects. Given your history of epilepsy and the recent changes in your medication, it is crucial to consider these factors when evaluating your current symptoms.

Firstly, it is important to differentiate between the types of dizziness. The sensation of spinning or feeling off-balance, as you described, is often referred to as vertigo. This can be caused by inner ear problems, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Meniere's disease. Alternatively, dizziness can also be related to neurological conditions, particularly given your past history of seizures. While it is less common, certain neurological disorders can manifest with dizziness as a primary symptom.

Your symptoms of dizziness occurring primarily in a seated position and the sensation of tilting to the left could suggest a vestibular issue, but they could also indicate a central nervous system problem, especially considering your history of epilepsy. The fact that you experienced dizziness after a recent cold could also imply that a viral infection may have affected your vestibular system.

The headaches you mentioned, although they are gradually subsiding, should also be monitored. Headaches associated with dizziness can sometimes indicate increased intracranial pressure or other neurological concerns. It is essential to keep your healthcare provider informed about any changes in your symptoms, including the frequency and intensity of your headaches.

Regarding your medication, it is vital to communicate with your doctor about any side effects you may be experiencing. Some medications, especially those used to manage epilepsy, can have side effects that include dizziness or balance issues. If your doctor has recently adjusted your medication, it may take some time for your body to adjust to the new regimen. However, if your dizziness worsens or new symptoms arise, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

In terms of treatment, your healthcare provider may recommend vestibular rehabilitation therapy, which can help improve balance and reduce dizziness. This therapy involves specific exercises designed to help your brain adapt to changes in balance and spatial orientation. Additionally, if your dizziness is related to medication, your doctor may consider further adjustments to your treatment plan.

It is also advisable to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, and avoiding sudden movements that could exacerbate your symptoms. If you find that certain activities trigger your dizziness, it may be helpful to modify your routine until you have a clearer understanding of the underlying cause.

In conclusion, while dizziness can be a common symptom, its persistence for two weeks warrants thorough evaluation. Given your medical history and the recent changes in your medication, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause of your dizziness and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical evaluation. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes.

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