Sudden Dizziness and Nausea: Could Computer Use Be the Cause?

Sudden dizziness and nausea?

I usually have a habit of using the computer, and on weekends, I often go to bed between 11 PM and 1 AM.
Just yesterday, after I finished taking a shower (I dried my hair but didn't use a blow dryer), I suddenly felt dizzy when I lay down.
After that, I experienced dizziness and nausea, although it wasn't severe.
By this morning, I felt somewhat better, but in the afternoon, when I started using the computer again, the symptoms reappeared.
Doctor, could this be related to my frequent computer use?

Xiao Pi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/02

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Based on your description, it is possible that the symptoms of dizziness are caused by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which occurs when turning the head or rising from a lying position.
This is due to the displacement of otoliths into the posterior semicircular canal, and can be alleviated through repositioning maneuvers performed by an otolaryngologist.
Additionally, vestibular neuritis is also a common cause of dizziness, often occurring in young adults following a viral infection after a cold, leading to inflammation of the vestibular nerve.
For medication treatment, antihistamines, prokinetic agents, and anxiolytics can be utilized.
It is recommended that you consult with a neurologist or an otolaryngologist for further examination and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.

Reply Date: 2016/10/02

More Info

Sudden dizziness and nausea can be concerning symptoms, and it's understandable to want to pinpoint their cause, especially in relation to your computer use. While it's possible that prolonged computer use could contribute to your symptoms, there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, your symptoms of dizziness and nausea could be related to a condition known as "computer vision syndrome" (CVS), which is a collection of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use. Symptoms can include eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, and dizziness. However, the dizziness you're experiencing seems to be more pronounced and accompanied by nausea, which might suggest a different underlying issue.

Another possibility is that your symptoms could be related to changes in your body position. You mentioned that the dizziness occurred after lying down, which could indicate a vestibular issue. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, helps control balance. Sudden changes in position can sometimes trigger dizziness, especially if there is an underlying condition like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is characterized by brief episodes of dizziness related to changes in head position.

Additionally, dehydration or low blood pressure could also be contributing factors. If you were dehydrated after your shower or if you have not been drinking enough fluids, this could lead to dizziness and nausea. Similarly, if you have been sleeping poorly or have irregular sleep patterns, as indicated by your late-night computer use, this could also affect your overall well-being and contribute to feelings of dizziness.

It's also important to consider other potential causes that may not be directly related to computer use. For example, anxiety or stress can manifest physically and lead to symptoms like dizziness and nausea. If you have been feeling particularly stressed or anxious, this could be a contributing factor.

Given that your symptoms improved somewhat overnight but recurred when you resumed computer use, it would be wise to take a break from screens and monitor how you feel. If the symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience additional symptoms such as severe headaches, visual disturbances, or difficulty walking, it would be advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

In summary, while your computer use could be a contributing factor to your dizziness and nausea, it is essential to consider other potential causes as well. Taking breaks from screens, ensuring proper hydration, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can help alleviate symptoms. However, if your symptoms continue, please consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment.

Similar Q&A

Persistent Dizziness for Two Weeks: Possible Causes and Next Steps

On August 25, I suddenly started experiencing dizziness, headaches, pain around my right eye, vomiting, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen, especially with text, which made me feel nauseous. My vision has been somewhat blurry. I visited an ophthalmologist, who found m...

Dr. Peng Shiwei reply Neurology
Hello, whether you need to undergo a CT scan should be discussed with your attending physician. Thank you for your question.

Sudden Severe Dizziness and Nausea: Understanding the Causes

Hello Doctor: Yesterday morning, I suddenly experienced dizziness and vertigo upon waking up. Lying down made it worse, and I couldn't stand steadily. I felt so dizzy that I kept wanting to vomit, but I couldn't. The symptoms lasted for a long time. Eventually, I had to...

Dr. Jian Huangqi reply Otolaryngology
Hello, you: Sudden severe dizziness and vertigo, feeling unsteady on your feet and experiencing nausea. It seems that recent cold symptoms may have led to "vestibular neuritis," which aligns with your description. With proper treatment, you should recover. You can visit...

Understanding Dizziness, Nausea, and Back Pain: When to Seek Help

Hello, I have a few questions I would like to ask. 1. I need to use a computer at work, but recently, whenever I stare at the screen for too long, I suddenly feel dizzy (with a sensation of body swaying, as if I'm about to faint). I immediately close my eyes to rest, and t...

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine
1. There are many causes of dizziness, such as Meniere's disease, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, anemia, hypertension or hypotension, and migraines that can also lead to dizziness. The most important thing is to identify the cause and provide targeted treatment. You c...

Managing Sudden Dizziness: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options

Hello Doctor, my mother (63 years old) has been experiencing sudden episodes of vertigo, cold sweats, and vomiting for the past three to four years. She has had these dizzy spells about once a year, mostly at night. Each time, she goes to the emergency room where she receives ant...

Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Dizziness is a common issue, but there are many potential causes. In addition to the possible reasons you mentioned, such as blood-related issues, cervical spine compression, and circulatory problems, these are all potential causes. It is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist ...