Dizziness: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Dizziness issues?

Hello, doctor.
At first, I occasionally experienced dizziness, feeling heavy-headed and light-headed.
Then I started to have blurred vision, but resting for a moment helped.
However, recently this situation has been occurring more frequently, accompanied by tinnitus, which also improves after resting.
There was one time it was particularly severe, and I felt nauseous and wanted to vomit.
While staying in an air-conditioned room, I kept sweating cold.
After resting for 1 to 2 hours, I felt much better, but I still had a headache.

Vivian, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/01

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, there are many factors that can cause symptoms such as dizziness and blurred vision, including anemia, autonomic dysfunction, and inner ear imbalance.
Generally speaking, women should first rule out anemia or fluid deficiency that could lead to insufficient cerebral circulation.
Symptoms can be improved by replenishing fluids and electrolytes.
Additionally, your headache accompanied by nausea may suggest symptoms related to "migraine." It is advisable to discuss examination and treatment options with a neurologist.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Medical Center cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/08/01

More Info

Dizziness can be a perplexing symptom, often leading to significant concern for those experiencing it. Understanding the potential causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical help is crucial for effective management and treatment.

Causes of Dizziness:
Dizziness can stem from a variety of underlying conditions. Some common causes include:
1. Vestibular Disorders: Conditions affecting the inner ear, such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's disease, or vestibular neuritis, can lead to episodes of dizziness, vertigo, and balance issues.

2. Neurological Issues: Migraines can cause dizziness, often accompanied by visual disturbances. Other neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), may also present with dizziness.

3. Cardiovascular Problems: Low blood pressure, arrhythmias, or heart conditions can lead to dizziness, especially when standing up quickly or after exertion.

4. Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells can result in insufficient oxygen delivery to the brain, causing dizziness and fatigue.

5. Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance: Insufficient fluid intake or loss of fluids through sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea can lead to dizziness.

6. Medications: Certain medications, particularly those affecting blood pressure or the central nervous system, can have dizziness as a side effect.

7. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can also contribute to dizziness, often manifesting as a sensation of lightheadedness or feeling faint.

Symptoms Associated with Dizziness:
Dizziness can present in various forms, including:
- Lightheadedness or feeling faint
- A sensation of spinning (vertigo)
- Imbalance or unsteadiness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Tinnitus (ear ringing)
- Visual disturbances, such as blurriness
In your case, the combination of dizziness, visual disturbances, tinnitus, and nausea suggests that a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause. The fact that these symptoms improve with rest is noteworthy, but the increasing frequency and severity warrant further investigation.

When to Seek Help:
It's essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Dizziness that is persistent or worsening
- Severe headaches accompanying dizziness
- Sudden onset of dizziness, especially if it is accompanied by weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking
- Dizziness associated with chest pain or shortness of breath
- Any new or unusual symptoms that concern you
Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a neurologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies (like MRI or CT scans), and possibly vestibular testing to assess inner ear function.

Conclusion:
Dizziness can be a multifaceted symptom with various potential causes. While it may sometimes be benign, persistent or severe symptoms should not be ignored. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life. Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including their frequency, duration, and any associated factors, to provide your healthcare provider with valuable information for diagnosis and treatment.

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