Dizziness During Sports: Possible Neurological Issues - Neurology

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Sudden dizziness during exercise, unable to determine direction?


Hello Doctor, in the past two days while playing badminton, everything was normal for the first 10 minutes.
After I squatted down to pick up a shuttlecock and stood up, I started feeling dizzy.
My hands knew where to hit the shuttlecock, but my brain couldn't figure out the direction.
This has happened before.
It also occurred while bowling; midway through, I could see the lane, but my brain and hands were completely uncoordinated, and I just couldn't throw the ball.
There have been times while riding my bike when suddenly I couldn't determine direction, feeling like I wasn't going straight, which was quite alarming.
I have experienced dizziness 1 or 2 times in the past few months (waking up in the middle of the night and feeling like the whole room was spinning, wanting to vomit).
I wonder if all these symptoms are connected.
My usual diet is quite oily, and I don't exercise much.
Could this be due to high cholesterol in my blood vessels, or could it be a neurological issue? For your information, I don't take any medications regularly; the most recent ones were two weeks ago (acne medication from a dermatologist) and a bottle of cold medicine.
Thank you for your response.
I appreciate it.

Liao Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/11

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello, based on your description, the symptoms can be divided into two categories.
The first is the cause of dizziness: 1.
Neurogenic reflex leading to decreased peripheral vascular tone, resulting in blood pooling in peripheral tissues and insufficient cerebral blood flow.
2.
Orthostatic hypotension caused by changes in posture, such as when suddenly standing up or getting out of bed.
Conditions like autonomic dysfunction and cardiovascular medications may contribute to this situation.
3.
Issues related to blood itself, such as hypotension or hypoglycemia.
The second category is the symptom of vertigo: Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) should be considered first, characterized by brief episodes of dizziness related to changes in head position, such as bending over, leaning back, lying down, getting up, turning over, or suddenly turning the head.
This may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, palpitations, cold sweats, and a feeling of weakness.
It is recommended that you consult a neurologist or cardiologist for evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.

Reply Date: 2017/11/11

More Info


Dizziness during sports can be concerning, especially when it interferes with your ability to perform activities like badminton or bowling. Based on your description, it seems that you experience episodes of dizziness and disorientation, particularly after physical exertion. This could potentially be linked to several underlying issues, including neurological concerns, blood pressure fluctuations, or even vestibular system dysfunction.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that dizziness can arise from various causes. In your case, the symptoms you described—such as feeling disoriented after standing up quickly or experiencing a disconnect between your brain and body coordination—may suggest a few possibilities:
1. Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition occurs when your blood pressure drops significantly upon standing up, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness. If you notice that your dizziness occurs after standing up from a crouched position, this could be a contributing factor. It’s advisable to monitor your blood pressure before and after physical activity to see if there are any significant changes.

2. Vestibular Dysfunction: The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a crucial role in balance and spatial orientation. If there is an issue with this system, it can lead to dizziness and coordination problems. This could explain why you feel disoriented while playing sports or riding a bike.

3. Neurological Issues: Given your history of dizziness and the episodes of feeling like the room is spinning, it’s essential to consider neurological factors. Conditions such as migraines, particularly vestibular migraines, can cause dizziness and disorientation. Additionally, other neurological disorders could also be at play, especially if you have experienced these symptoms multiple times.

4. Diet and Hydration: You mentioned that your diet is quite oily and that your exercise volume is low. Poor nutrition and dehydration can contribute to feelings of fatigue and dizziness. Ensuring that you maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, along with adequate hydration, is crucial for overall health and can help mitigate dizziness.

5. Medication Side Effects: You noted that you recently took medication for acne and a cold. Some medications can have side effects that include dizziness or disorientation. It’s worth reviewing any potential side effects with your healthcare provider.

Given these considerations, it is essential to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional. A neurologist can perform necessary tests, such as imaging studies or vestibular assessments, to determine if there is an underlying neurological condition. Additionally, a physical examination can help assess your blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health.

In the meantime, here are some practical steps you can take to manage your symptoms:
- Hydrate: Ensure you are drinking enough water before, during, and after exercise.

- Monitor Blood Pressure: Check your blood pressure regularly, especially after physical activity.

- Gradual Movements: When transitioning from sitting or crouching to standing, do so slowly to give your body time to adjust.

- Balanced Diet: Focus on a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of nutrients to support your overall health.

- Limit High-Intensity Activities: If certain sports exacerbate your symptoms, consider modifying your activities until you have a clearer understanding of your condition.

In conclusion, while dizziness during sports can stem from various causes, it is crucial to investigate these symptoms further with a healthcare professional. Early intervention can help address any underlying issues and improve your overall quality of life.

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