Sudden Dizziness and Cold Sensations: Neurological Symptoms

Sudden dizziness, along with coldness in the chest and hands?

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing sudden episodes of dizziness and visual disturbances at work, accompanied by a feeling of coolness in my chest and hands, sweating due to anxiety, lasting for several minutes.
What could be causing these symptoms?

steve, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/30

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, it may be necessary to consider issues related to the autonomic nervous system, specifically excessive activation of the sympathetic nervous system.
Such symptoms may become more pronounced due to insufficient rest or dehydration.
Generally, the autonomic nervous system is regulated by the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems—one acts as the accelerator and the other as the brake.
The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for stimulating the "gas pedal," driving the body into action, while the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for applying the "brake," allowing the body to rest.
For example, during exercise, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, leading to an increased heart rate, faster breathing, and increased sweating.
Once the exercise stops, the parasympathetic nervous system begins to take effect, slowing the heart rate, reducing breathing rate, and decreasing sweating.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang from Taoyuan Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2019/10/30

More Info

Sudden dizziness and cold sensations can be concerning symptoms, and it's important to understand the potential underlying causes. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing episodes of dizziness accompanied by cold sensations in your chest and hands, as well as sweating and feelings of anxiety. These symptoms can be attributed to a variety of factors, including neurological, cardiovascular, and psychological conditions.

Firstly, dizziness can occur due to several reasons. One common cause is a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can happen when standing up quickly or due to dehydration. This can lead to feelings of lightheadedness or faintness. Additionally, vestibular disorders, which affect the inner ear and balance, can also cause dizziness. Conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis could be potential culprits.

The cold sensations you are experiencing in your chest and hands may be related to peripheral vasoconstriction, where blood vessels narrow, reducing blood flow to the extremities. This can occur during episodes of anxiety or panic attacks, which may explain the sweating and feelings of tension you described. Anxiety can trigger a fight-or-flight response, leading to physiological changes such as increased heart rate, sweating, and changes in blood flow, which can manifest as cold sensations.

Moreover, it is essential to consider the possibility of anxiety or panic disorders. Panic attacks can present with a range of physical symptoms, including dizziness, cold sensations, sweating, and a feeling of impending doom. If you find that these episodes are accompanied by intense fear or anxiety, it may be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional for evaluation and support.

In terms of neurological concerns, while dizziness can be a symptom of various neurological conditions, it is often accompanied by other signs such as headaches, visual disturbances, or coordination issues. If you are not experiencing these additional symptoms, it may be less likely that a serious neurological condition is present. However, if the dizziness persists or worsens, it is crucial to seek medical attention for a thorough evaluation.

Given that you mentioned these episodes occur during work, it may also be helpful to assess your work environment and stress levels. High-stress situations can exacerbate anxiety and lead to physical symptoms like those you described. Implementing stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or regular breaks, may help alleviate some of these symptoms.

In conclusion, the symptoms you are experiencing could be related to a combination of factors, including anxiety, changes in blood pressure, or vestibular issues. It is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely and consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. They may recommend tests such as blood pressure monitoring, blood tests, or a referral to a neurologist or psychologist, depending on your specific situation. Taking proactive steps to manage stress and anxiety can also be beneficial in reducing the frequency and intensity of these episodes.

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