Dizziness and Eye Discomfort: When to Seek Medical Help

Dizziness / Discomfort in the eyes

Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing occasional dizziness for a while.
However, starting from two weeks ago, the dizziness has become more pronounced, especially when sitting.
In the past few days, it has worsened.
When I close my eyes and rotate my head to the sides, I feel dizzy, and my eyes also feel uncomfortable (with a slight swelling sensation).
Additionally, I have cold hands and feet.
I looked up some information and found that cervical spine misalignment seems to resemble my symptoms, as my posture appears to be poor for a long time (for example, I tend to lean to one side while eating or using my phone).
Two weeks ago, while reading, I placed the book in a drawer for convenience, which forced my head to look down excessively.
I'm not sure if this caused the issue, but my neck doesn't feel particularly sore unless I press on it.
I would appreciate your advice on what symptoms I might be experiencing and which specialty I should consult based on these symptoms.
Thank you!

Mr. Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/24

Dr. Huang Xunying reply Family Medicine

If you experience dizziness when turning your head with your eyes closed, it is recommended to see an otolaryngologist for further examination.
Additionally, there may be issues related to your cervical spine that require posture adjustments.
If symptoms persist, consider a follow-up with a neurologist.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2018/01/24

More Info

Hello,
Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding dizziness and eye discomfort. It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several underlying issues. Let's break down your symptoms and discuss when it might be appropriate to seek medical help.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Dizziness: Dizziness can manifest in various forms, including lightheadedness, vertigo (the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning), or a general feeling of unsteadiness. Given that your dizziness worsens when sitting and is accompanied by head movements, it may suggest a vestibular issue or even a cervical spine problem, especially if you have been maintaining poor posture.

2. Eye Discomfort: The sensation of eye discomfort or swelling can be linked to several factors, including eye strain, especially if you spend long hours looking at screens or reading in awkward positions. This discomfort can also be exacerbated by headaches or migraines, which may be related to your neck positioning.

3. Cold Extremities: The feeling of cold hands and feet could indicate circulatory issues or could be a response to anxiety or stress. It’s important to consider whether this symptom is persistent or if it occurs in conjunction with your other symptoms.

4. Neck Issues: You mentioned potential cervical spine misalignment due to poor posture. Long-term poor posture can lead to tension in the neck muscles, which can contribute to headaches and dizziness.

When to Seek Medical Help
Given the combination of symptoms you are experiencing, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially since your dizziness has become more pronounced and is affecting your daily activities. Here are some guidelines on when to seek help:
- Persistent Symptoms: If your dizziness persists for more than a few days or worsens, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as severe headaches, visual disturbances, difficulty speaking, or weakness in limbs, seek immediate medical attention as these could indicate a more serious condition.

- Impact on Daily Life: If your symptoms are interfering with your ability to perform daily tasks or affecting your quality of life, it’s time to see a doctor.

Which Specialist to See
Based on your symptoms, you may want to consider seeing the following specialists:
- Otolaryngologist (ENT): They can evaluate your dizziness, especially if it is related to inner ear issues.

- Neurologist: If your symptoms suggest a neurological component, such as persistent dizziness or headaches, a neurologist can provide a thorough evaluation.

- Optometrist or Ophthalmologist: If your eye discomfort persists or worsens, it may be beneficial to have your eyes examined to rule out any underlying ocular issues.

- Chiropractor or Physical Therapist: If you suspect that your neck posture is contributing to your symptoms, a chiropractor or physical therapist can help address alignment and provide exercises to improve posture.

Conclusion
In summary, while some of your symptoms may be related to posture and eye strain, the combination of dizziness, eye discomfort, and cold extremities warrants a thorough evaluation. It’s essential to communicate all your symptoms clearly to your healthcare provider, as this will help them make an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.
Don’t hesitate to seek help, as early intervention can often lead to better outcomes. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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