Dizziness and Nausea During Study Sessions: Causes and Solutions

Dizziness, hello?

Hello, I have an upcoming exam and sometimes I find myself playing on the computer first.
When I think about the exam, I try to study, but even in school, while attending classes, my eyes start to flicker, I feel dizzy, and I want to vomit.
I’ve asked others, and some say that studying for too long can cause this, but even when I don’t study much at home, I still experience these symptoms.
Can you explain why this happens? How does the brain determine when we are studying? Does being in class for such a long time count as studying? I experience flickering eyes, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty focusing.
Do you have any solutions? Is it necessary to just take a break, and is it impossible to change the brain's perception? I apologize for my ignorance; I don’t know the cause of these symptoms, so I can only express it this way.

Jiang Ruiyi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/02

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, it may be necessary to consider a migraine with aura.
Symptoms include visual disturbances such as seeing stars and flashes of light, as well as blurred or distorted vision, which are all signs of a migraine aura.
A few minutes after the aura appears, you may experience tingling, weakness, or numbness in the face, hands, or legs.
During the attack, symptoms may accompany nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia, and pallor.
After the aura subsides, you may experience severe unilateral throbbing pain in the head.
These migraine symptoms can typically last for several hours, and in some cases, up to 2-3 days.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Tao cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/03/02

More Info

Dizziness and nausea during study sessions can be quite distressing, especially when preparing for exams. These symptoms can arise from various factors, and understanding their underlying causes can help you find effective solutions.
Firstly, prolonged periods of studying or screen time can lead to visual strain, commonly referred to as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include blurred vision, headaches, and dizziness. When you focus on a screen for an extended time, your eyes may become fatigued, leading to difficulty in focusing and a sensation of dizziness. To mitigate this, it is essential to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps to relax the eye muscles and reduce strain.

Additionally, poor posture while studying can contribute to discomfort. Sitting in a slouched position can lead to tension in the neck and shoulders, which may cause headaches and dizziness. Ensure that your study environment is ergonomically friendly. Your chair should support your back, and your computer screen should be at eye level to minimize strain on your neck and eyes.

Another potential cause of dizziness and nausea is dehydration or inadequate nutrition. When studying, it’s easy to forget to drink water or eat properly. Dehydration can lead to headaches, dizziness, and even nausea. Make sure to stay hydrated and consume balanced meals that include proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to maintain energy levels and cognitive function.

Stress and anxiety, particularly during exam preparation, can also manifest as physical symptoms, including dizziness and nausea. The pressure to perform well can lead to heightened anxiety levels, which may trigger these sensations. Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or even light physical activity can help alleviate stress. Regular breaks during study sessions can also provide mental relief and improve focus.

If you find that your symptoms persist despite making these adjustments, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional. They can assess whether there are any underlying medical conditions contributing to your symptoms, such as vestibular disorders or other neurological issues.

In summary, dizziness and nausea during study sessions can stem from various factors, including visual strain, poor posture, dehydration, and stress. Implementing strategies such as taking regular breaks, maintaining good posture, staying hydrated, and managing stress can significantly improve your study experience. If symptoms continue, seeking medical advice is recommended to rule out any underlying health issues.

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