Dizziness and Nausea: A Guide for Patients - Family Medicine

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Dizziness and nausea can be distressing symptoms that may arise from a variety of underlying conditions. Based on your history and the details you've provided, it seems that several factors could be contributing to your current symptoms.

Firstly, your recent fall and wrist fracture, although healed, may have led to changes in your physical activity or posture, which can sometimes cause dizziness. Additionally, the use of a brace or immobilization during recovery could have affected your balance or muscle strength, leading to feelings of lightheadedness.

Your smoking history is also significant. Nicotine can have various effects on the cardiovascular system, including increasing heart rate and potentially causing fluctuations in blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness. The fact that you experienced increased dizziness when you resumed smoking after a brief cessation suggests that your body may be reacting to the sudden intake of nicotine, especially if you were previously abstaining. This could also explain the feelings of weakness and the sensation of "almost collapsing" you described.

Moreover, your lactose intolerance and the consumption of milk could be contributing to gastrointestinal discomfort, which may manifest as nausea. If you are experiencing diarrhea intermittently, this could lead to dehydration, which is another common cause of dizziness. It's important to monitor your fluid intake and ensure you are staying hydrated, especially if you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms.

The red rash on your shoulder could indicate an allergic reaction, possibly related to the adhesive from the electrode used for electrical therapy or another irritant. Allergic reactions can sometimes cause systemic symptoms, including dizziness and nausea.

Given your history of allergies, particularly to dust mites, and the need for corticosteroids during respiratory infections, it’s possible that your current symptoms could be exacerbated by environmental factors or allergens. Stress, lack of sleep, and fatigue can also contribute to feelings of dizziness and nausea, as they can affect your overall well-being and exacerbate underlying conditions.

Considering the complexity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. A good starting point would be to see a primary care physician or an internist, who can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly some laboratory tests to rule out any underlying conditions such as anemia, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalances. They may also refer you to a specialist, such as an allergist for your allergic symptoms or a neurologist if they suspect a neurological cause for your dizziness.

In summary, your symptoms of dizziness and nausea could be multifactorial, stemming from your smoking history, recent physical trauma, gastrointestinal issues, potential allergic reactions, and lifestyle factors such as sleep deprivation. It’s essential to seek medical advice to address these symptoms comprehensively and to ensure that any underlying conditions are appropriately managed.