Managing Dizziness After Stroke: Symptoms and Next Steps

Q: Managing Dizziness After Stroke: Symptoms and Next Steps

Hello： I am not sure if your age is indeed in your 30s as stated in the records. <br>If it is a young-onset stroke, the most important thing is to identify the risk factors that led to the stroke. <br>You mentioned occipital lobe stroke, which primarily involves the posterior cir

Dizziness worsens after a stroke?

About three months ago, I was admitted to the emergency room due to a stroke, which was diagnosed as a cerebral infarction.
I was hospitalized for a week, and my symptoms were relatively mild at that time.
There was a blockage in the blood vessels in the occipital lobe, which likely caused some dizziness, but it wasn't severe, so I didn't pay much attention to it.
My main concern at that time was a defect in my visual field.
After being discharged, I have been resting at home, and over the past month, the dizziness has become more frequent.
Initially, when it occurred, I thought I was having another stroke and went to the emergency room for a CT scan, which did not reveal any new strokes.
Currently, I experience dizziness every day, especially when lying in bed, which is more severe.
Sometimes, I have to take anti-vertigo medication to fall asleep because the dizziness causes my head to sway back and forth.
During my follow-up appointment with the neurologist, the doctor did not provide any specific recommendations and suggested that I should seek further evaluation elsewhere.
I am feeling overwhelmed by this constant dizziness.
Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/01

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: I am not sure if your age is indeed in your 30s as stated in the records.
If it is a young-onset stroke, the most important thing is to identify the risk factors that led to the stroke.
You mentioned occipital lobe stroke, which primarily involves the posterior circulation.
If there is instability in the blood flow of the basilar artery, it can often lead to dizziness.
I recommend discussing examination and treatment options with your attending physician, and adjusting your medication every two weeks.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang, Neurology, Taoyuan Hospital, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/01/01

More Info

Managing dizziness after a stroke can be a challenging and concerning experience, especially when it affects daily life and overall well-being. Dizziness is a common symptom following a stroke, and understanding its causes, implications, and management strategies is crucial for recovery.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that dizziness can manifest in various forms, including vertigo (a sensation of spinning), lightheadedness, or a general feeling of unsteadiness. After a stroke, these symptoms can arise due to several factors, including damage to the brain areas responsible for balance and coordination, changes in blood flow, or even psychological factors such as anxiety.

In your case, the dizziness seems to have worsened over the past month, which is understandably alarming. Since you have already undergone a CT scan that did not reveal any new strokes, it is essential to consider other potential causes. For instance, post-stroke dizziness can sometimes be attributed to vestibular dysfunction, which affects the inner ear's ability to maintain balance. Additionally, medications prescribed for stroke recovery or other conditions may have side effects that contribute to dizziness.

Given that your dizziness intensifies when lying down, it may also be worthwhile to explore positional vertigo, which can occur when certain head movements trigger dizziness. This condition can often be treated with specific maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver, which helps reposition the inner ear crystals that may be causing the symptoms.

To manage your dizziness effectively, here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult a Specialist: Since your neurologist has not provided specific guidance, consider seeking a referral to a vestibular rehabilitation therapist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. These professionals can conduct comprehensive assessments to determine the underlying cause of your dizziness and recommend appropriate treatments.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in vestibular rehabilitation therapy can be beneficial. This type of therapy involves exercises designed to improve balance and reduce dizziness. A trained therapist can tailor a program to your specific needs, helping you regain stability and confidence in your movements.

3. Medication Review: Discuss your current medications with your healthcare provider. If you are taking medications for dizziness, ensure they are appropriate for your condition. Sometimes, adjusting dosages or switching medications can alleviate symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Implementing certain lifestyle changes can also help manage dizziness. Staying hydrated, avoiding sudden movements, and ensuring a safe home environment (e.g., removing tripping hazards) can reduce the risk of falls and enhance your comfort.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your dizziness episodes, noting their frequency, duration, and any associated activities or triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing and managing your condition.

6. Support System: Don’t hesitate to lean on family and friends for support. Dizziness can be disorienting and frustrating, and having a support system can help you cope with the emotional aspects of recovery.

In conclusion, while dizziness after a stroke can be distressing, it is essential to approach it systematically. By consulting with specialists, engaging in rehabilitation, and making necessary lifestyle adjustments, you can work towards managing your symptoms effectively. Remember, recovery is a journey, and it’s important to be patient with yourself as you navigate this process. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare providers to ensure you receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.

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