Prolonged Dizziness: Could It Indicate Serious Neurological Issues?

Q: Prolonged Dizziness: Could It Indicate Serious Neurological Issues?

Hello： Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing vestibular migraine. <br>A brain imaging study can be arranged to rule out the concerns you have. <br>It is recommended that you seek assistance from a neurologist.

Dizziness lasting more than 2 months?

On May 8th, I experienced mild dizziness and unsteadiness while walking.
That evening, I had a condition where half of my left eye was blurry and appeared pixelated, and I was unable to focus; my right eye was normal.
On May 10th, an ophthalmological examination showed no abnormalities, and the doctor referred me to a neurologist.
Since the onset of these symptoms, my dizziness and unsteadiness have worsened, accompanied by occasional headaches that can be unilateral or located at the back of my head, along with tightness and pain in my neck.
Occasionally, my hands and feet feel numb, and I experience slight tremors.
During severe episodes, my hands and feet become cold, and I break out in cold sweats, along with mild nausea and dizziness.
Sometimes, the dizziness is absent indoors but occurs with sudden head movements; however, when I step outside, the symptoms become more severe.
Seven years ago, I experienced temporary blurriness in both eyes, but an examination at an ophthalmology clinic showed no issues.
I also visited the ENT department at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, where the physician suspected Meniere's disease.
However, since that time, I have not experienced symptoms lasting this long during episodes.
I would like to inquire if it is possible that this could be due to cerebellar lesions, a brain tumor, or a tumor in the cervical spine? Thank you for your assistance in answering these questions.

S, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/03

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology

Hello: Based on your description, it is possible that you are experiencing vestibular migraine.
A brain imaging study can be arranged to rule out the concerns you have.
It is recommended that you seek assistance from a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2019/07/03

More Info

Prolonged dizziness, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as blurred vision, headaches, and neurological signs like numbness or tremors, can indeed be indicative of serious underlying neurological issues. Your symptoms, particularly the left eye's visual disturbance and the persistent dizziness, warrant a thorough evaluation to rule out conditions that may affect the central nervous system.

Firstly, the combination of dizziness and visual disturbances can suggest several potential causes. One possibility is a vestibular disorder, which affects the inner ear and balance system. Meniere's disease, which you mentioned, is characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss. However, the prolonged nature of your symptoms and the additional neurological signs you are experiencing may point towards something more complex.

Another concern could be related to neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), which can cause a variety of symptoms including dizziness, visual disturbances, and sensory changes. MS can lead to lesions in the brain and spinal cord, affecting various functions. Additionally, a brain tumor or other structural abnormalities could also present with similar symptoms, particularly if they are pressing on areas of the brain responsible for balance and vision.

Cervical spine issues, such as tumors or degenerative changes, can also lead to dizziness and neurological symptoms. The neck houses critical structures that can impact blood flow to the brain and affect balance. If there is compression of the cervical spine or associated nerves, it could lead to the symptoms you are experiencing.

Given the complexity of your symptoms, it is crucial to pursue further diagnostic testing. An MRI of the brain and cervical spine would be beneficial to visualize any potential lesions, tumors, or structural abnormalities. Additionally, a thorough neurological examination by a neurologist is essential to assess your symptoms in detail and determine the appropriate course of action.

In the meantime, it is important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any sudden changes, such as severe headaches, loss of consciousness, or significant changes in vision, seek immediate medical attention. Keeping a symptom diary may also help your healthcare provider understand the patterns and triggers of your dizziness and other symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to vestibular issues, they may also indicate more serious neurological conditions. A comprehensive evaluation, including imaging studies and a detailed neurological assessment, is essential to determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment. Do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and support. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing these symptoms promptly is crucial.

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