Dizziness: Navigating Symptoms and Seeking Help

Dizziness - the sensation of being on a boat, feeling like floating?

I am a high school senior and have experienced a sensation of earthquakes since childhood.
After entering high school, my dizziness has intensified.
I feel as if I am on a boat, and in my room, it feels like I am on a bus.
Occasionally, I feel like I am turning to the left or right, and when I look at things, they seem to be slightly moving, but not distorted.
I sometimes have headaches at the back of my head and neck, along with a feeling of motion sickness.
I have undergone a CT scan, evoked potentials, and hearing tests, all of which came back normal.
Which specialty should I seek help from now? A neurologist mentioned anxiety, and an ENT specialist said it doesn't seem like vertigo but more like a floating sensation, sometimes feeling like I am moving backward, forward, left, or right, and I feel unable to stabilize myself almost all day.
Should I still consider seeing a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to help with my condition?

Shi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/03

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Follow-up assessments from neurology and otolaryngology are still necessary.
Additionally, it is important to consider whether there is a need for long-term use of other medications.
If necessary, you can consult with a psychiatrist for assistance.
Please note that online consultations do not equate to in-person medical visits and cannot provide accurate diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/12/03

More Info

Navigating dizziness can be a challenging experience, especially for someone like you who has been dealing with these symptoms for a long time. It’s important to understand that dizziness can stem from various causes, and identifying the right one is crucial for effective treatment. Given your description of symptoms, it seems you are experiencing a combination of sensations that could be related to vestibular issues, anxiety, or even a combination of both.

First, let’s break down your symptoms. You mentioned feeling as if you are experiencing earthquakes, increased dizziness, and sensations of floating or drifting. These feelings can be quite disorienting and may lead to anxiety, which can further exacerbate the dizziness. The fact that you have undergone various tests, including MRI scans and auditory tests, and received normal results is a positive sign, but it can also be frustrating when you are still experiencing symptoms.

Given that both neurologists and ENT specialists have not found a clear physical cause for your dizziness, it may be beneficial to consider a multidisciplinary approach. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult a Vestibular Specialist: Since your symptoms seem to be related to balance and spatial orientation, a vestibular rehabilitation therapist or a specialist in vestibular disorders may provide valuable insights. They can conduct specific tests to assess your balance system and recommend exercises to help retrain your brain to process balance signals more effectively.

2. Psychological Evaluation: Since anxiety has been mentioned as a potential factor, it might be helpful to consult a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can help you explore whether your dizziness is related to anxiety or stress, and they may suggest cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other therapeutic approaches to manage anxiety symptoms.

3. Consider a Holistic Approach: You mentioned the possibility of seeking help from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Some individuals find that acupuncture, herbal remedies, or other TCM practices can help alleviate symptoms of dizziness and anxiety. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified practitioner who understands your medical history and current symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating lifestyle changes can also be beneficial. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and good sleep hygiene can improve overall well-being and may help reduce dizziness. Mindfulness practices, such as yoga or meditation, can also help manage anxiety and improve your sense of balance.

5. Follow-Up with Your Primary Care Physician: Regular follow-ups with your primary care physician can help monitor your symptoms and ensure that any new developments are addressed promptly. They can also coordinate care between specialists and help you navigate the healthcare system.

In summary, while your symptoms may be complex, a combination of vestibular therapy, psychological support, and lifestyle changes may provide relief. It’s essential to remain proactive in seeking help and to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your experiences. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and with the right support and treatment, you can find ways to manage your symptoms effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Chronic Dizziness and Visual Disturbances: When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with a tendency to feel dizzy from hunger as a child, often without realizing it (not feeling hungry or wanting to eat). Now, I eat three meals on time, but I still experience dizziness for no apparent reason. Sometimes I have migraines (mostly on th...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello: Your symptoms seem to be more related to neurology. Regarding the central nervous system: 1. You experience motion sickness almost every time you are in a vehicle, and strong odors also make you feel dizzy (possibly a variant of migraine?). 2. You often choke when drinking...

Dealing with Dizziness: Causes and When to Seek Help

I have been experiencing frequent dizziness and lightheadedness lately. When I get out of bed, I feel unsteady and groggy. Could this be due to a lack of oxygen to the brain, or is there another underlying condition? The symptoms have persisted for two to three days. While walkin...

Dr. Yang Hongzhi reply Internal Medicine
If you experience vertigo that feels like the world is spinning, especially when accompanied by vomiting, it may indicate an issue with the inner ear. However, if you are feeling dizzy without it reaching the level of vertigo, it is a non-specific symptom and may not always revea...

Understanding My Mental and Physical Health Struggles: A Personal Journey

Hello Doctor: I started experiencing dizziness at the end of February this year. At that time, my band was preparing for a national student music competition. I visited a local clinic near my school, where the doctor pressed on the back of my neck and noted that it was particular...

Dr. Huang Jiabin reply Psychiatry
Hello: Thank you for your hard work. Deciding to open up about your life story may have come after much hesitation and contemplation, and it is not an easy task. However, it is fortunate that you have shared these experiences that are often difficult to express, as you may have d...

Understanding Dizziness: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dear Dr. Yeh, I have recently been troubled by dizziness, which has significantly affected my daily life. The main symptoms are as follows, and I would appreciate your assistance in interpreting them: 1. First occurrence (March 2): While climbing stairs, I suddenly experienced ...

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology
For dizziness, please visit the outpatient clinic for a detailed examination. You can also refer to the "Health Education" section at http://www.ccie.nctu.edu.tw/~yehdame.