the Link Between Allergic Rhinitis and Dizziness

Allergic rhinitis and dizziness?

Hello: Yesterday, I suddenly experienced dizziness that felt like the room was spinning.
The only position that provided slight relief was lying on my right side (lying on my back, left side, sitting, and standing all caused significant dizziness).
An otolaryngologist suggested that it might be related to allergic rhinitis affecting my inner ear.
After taking anti-nausea medication and using a saline nasal spray, I felt some improvement today, but I still feel a bit dizzy.
I have had allergic rhinitis since childhood without experiencing dizziness, and my allergies haven't been severe recently.
I would like to know if my dizziness is related to the root canal treatment I had three days ago, as I am concerned that the wound might have led to a bacterial infection in my inner ear.

Jiang Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/03

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello Ms.
Jiang, dizziness can have numerous potential causes: 1) If accompanied by a dull pain in the back of the head, it may suggest poor blood circulation in the head and neck.
2) If there are symptoms of ear fullness, pressure, or hearing loss, it may indicate sudden sensorineural hearing loss, Meniere's disease, or acute labyrinthitis.
3) If turning the head exacerbates the symptoms, it may suggest benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is more similar to your symptoms.
Other possible diagnoses include vestibular neuritis, migraine-associated vertigo, orthostatic hypotension, hyperlipidemia, and brain lesions, among others.
It is advisable to seek further evaluation and treatment from an otolaryngologist or a neurologist.
As for whether it is related to nasal allergies or dental issues, further examination is necessary to determine that.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chi Chao-Yun, Head of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/10/03

More Info

Understanding the link between allergic rhinitis and dizziness can be quite complex, as it involves multiple systems in the body, particularly the respiratory and vestibular systems. Allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever, is characterized by inflammation of the nasal mucosa due to allergens. This inflammation can lead to various symptoms, including nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching. However, it can also have secondary effects on other systems, including the inner ear, which is responsible for balance.

When you experience dizziness, particularly in the context of allergic rhinitis, it may be due to several factors. The inner ear houses the vestibular system, which helps maintain balance. When nasal congestion occurs due to allergic rhinitis, it can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction. The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and helps equalize pressure in the ear. If this tube becomes blocked or dysfunctional due to inflammation, it can cause a sensation of fullness in the ear, which may contribute to feelings of dizziness or vertigo.

In your case, the dizziness you experienced after undergoing root canal treatment may not be directly related to the procedure itself but could be influenced by the overall state of your health, including your allergic rhinitis. The stress and anxiety associated with dental procedures can also exacerbate symptoms of dizziness. Additionally, if you were experiencing any degree of inflammation or infection in the nasal passages or sinuses, this could further complicate the situation.

The fact that you noticed improvement after taking anti-nausea medication and using a nasal spray suggests that the treatment was effective in addressing the underlying inflammation and congestion. It’s also worth noting that allergic rhinitis can sometimes fluctuate in severity, and even if you have not experienced significant symptoms recently, a sudden change in environmental allergens or stressors could trigger a more pronounced reaction.

Regarding your concern about a potential bacterial infection in the inner ear due to the dental procedure, it is generally less common for dental work to directly cause infections in the inner ear. However, if there was significant swelling or if the Eustachian tube was affected, it could lead to a temporary imbalance in the inner ear, resulting in dizziness. If you continue to experience symptoms or if they worsen, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while allergic rhinitis can influence dizziness through mechanisms related to nasal congestion and Eustachian tube dysfunction, the connection to your recent dental procedure may be more indirect. It’s essential to monitor your symptoms and consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed appropriately. If dizziness persists, further investigation may be warranted to rule out other potential causes, including vestibular disorders or other infections.

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