Right-Sided Dizziness: Causes and Concerns - Neurology

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Dizziness predominantly on the right side?


Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing occasional nerve pain (in one of the nerves on the right side of my neck) since my university days.
It wasn't until my military service that I began to experience dizziness on the right side of my head, and my body would uncontrollably lean to the right, sometimes with complete loss of sensation.
This can happen even when I'm standing, and once it lasted for almost 10 seconds.
I tried to control my body, but I would end up kneeling (with my entire body feeling split in half, specifically the right side).
Previously, this occurred about 4 to 5 times a month, and I thought it was just due to lack of sleep.
However, now it happens about 2 to 3 times a day.
Could this indicate a serious condition? I am increasingly worried that one day I might collapse and not be able to get back up.
Thank you for taking the time to answer my question! I really appreciate it!

Fan Cheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/29

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello, if fainting occurs with symptoms of convulsions, it may be necessary to consider epilepsy.
Seizures can sometimes cause sudden collapse, resembling fainting, and may involve limb jerking and prolonged confusion.
It is recommended that you consult a neurologist to discuss examination and treatment options.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Best regards, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Neurology.

Reply Date: 2017/05/29

More Info


Understanding right-sided dizziness, especially when accompanied by neurological symptoms, is crucial for determining the underlying cause and appropriate management. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing episodes of dizziness and loss of control on the right side of your body, which can be concerning.
Dizziness can arise from various sources, including vestibular disorders, neurological issues, or even cardiovascular problems. Given that your symptoms involve a specific side of the body, it raises the possibility of a neurological origin. Conditions such as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), migraines, or even more serious issues like multiple sclerosis or a brain lesion could potentially cause unilateral symptoms.

1. Vestibular Disorders: These affect the inner ear and brain areas that help control balance and eye movements. Conditions like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis could lead to dizziness, but they typically do not cause unilateral weakness or loss of sensation.

2. Neurological Conditions: The symptoms you describe, particularly the loss of control and the sensation of your body leaning to one side, could indicate a neurological issue. Migraines can sometimes present with aura symptoms that include dizziness and unilateral weakness. However, if these episodes are increasing in frequency and severity, it is crucial to rule out more serious conditions such as TIAs or strokes, which can present with sudden dizziness, weakness, or numbness on one side of the body.

3. Cardiovascular Issues: Dizziness can also be related to blood flow issues, such as orthostatic hypotension or arrhythmias. If your blood pressure drops suddenly when standing, it could cause dizziness and a feeling of instability.

4. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can also contribute to dizziness. Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms that mimic neurological issues. However, given your history and the nature of your symptoms, it is essential to investigate further.

Given the frequency and nature of your symptoms, I strongly recommend seeking medical attention as soon as possible. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, including a neurologist, is warranted. They may suggest imaging studies such as an MRI or CT scan to rule out structural abnormalities in the brain, as well as blood tests to check for any underlying metabolic or hematological issues.

In the meantime, keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including the frequency, duration, and any associated factors (like stress or sleep patterns). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis.

In summary, while dizziness can have many benign causes, the specific nature of your symptoms, particularly the right-sided weakness and loss of control, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation to rule out serious conditions. Please prioritize your health and seek medical attention promptly.

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