Dizziness After Cold Symptoms: Causes and Concerns

Cold + sudden dizziness

Last Thursday morning, I felt discomfort in my throat and didn't see a doctor until Saturday.
He said it was the early symptoms of a cold and that I might develop a fever.
By Monday afternoon (today), I had an exam and after sitting for about an hour, I got up to submit my paper.
As I walked to the front, I suddenly felt a wave of dizziness that lasted for about 10 to 20 seconds.
After walking a bit on my way home, I started to feel slightly dizzy again.
I feel a bit better now.
Could the dizziness be caused by a fever? In my previous tests, I found that my hemoglobin levels were low.
Could this also be a contributing factor? Sometimes I feel dizzy after sitting for a long time or standing, but it doesn't last that long.
I would appreciate your response, thank you!

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/25

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

There are many causes of dizziness.
It is recommended to first consult your family physician to evaluate the possible underlying causes, which will allow for appropriate follow-up treatment.
Please note: online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/12/25

More Info

Dizziness after experiencing cold symptoms can be concerning, and it’s important to understand the potential causes and implications. Based on your description, it seems you experienced a sore throat and cold symptoms, which could have led to a fever. After sitting for an extended period during your exam, you felt dizzy upon standing, which lasted for about 10 to 20 seconds. This dizziness could be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, when you have a cold or flu, your body is under stress as it fights off the infection. This can lead to dehydration, especially if you have a fever, which can cause dizziness. Fever increases your body’s metabolic rate and can lead to increased fluid loss through sweating. If you are not adequately hydrating, this can result in dehydration, which is a common cause of dizziness.

Secondly, the act of sitting for a long time can lead to a temporary drop in blood pressure when you stand up, a phenomenon known as orthostatic hypotension. This occurs because your body may not adjust quickly enough to the change in position, leading to a brief period of dizziness. This is particularly common in individuals who may already be feeling unwell or fatigued.

Additionally, you mentioned having low hemoglobin levels (anemia), which can also contribute to feelings of dizziness. Anemia reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of your blood, which can lead to fatigue and dizziness, especially when you exert yourself or change positions quickly. If your blood tests indicate low hemoglobin, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider to address this issue, as it may require dietary changes or supplementation.

In summary, the dizziness you experienced could be due to a combination of factors: dehydration from fever, orthostatic hypotension from prolonged sitting, and possibly anemia. It’s essential to stay well-hydrated, especially when you are sick, and to rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to allow your body to adjust. If your dizziness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as severe headache, visual changes, or persistent fatigue), it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

To manage your symptoms effectively, consider the following steps:
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated. Electrolyte solutions can also be beneficial if you are experiencing fever or sweating.

2. Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in iron and vitamins to help address any potential anemia. Foods such as leafy greens, red meat, beans, and fortified cereals can be helpful.

3. Rest: Make sure to get adequate rest to allow your body to recover from the cold. Avoid overexertion, especially during this recovery phase.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If dizziness continues or if you experience new symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

5. Follow-Up: Given your history of low hemoglobin, it may be beneficial to have a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss your symptoms and any necessary blood tests to monitor your condition.

In conclusion, while dizziness after cold symptoms can be common, it’s essential to pay attention to your body and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these concerns early can help prevent further complications.

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