Sleep Issues and Dizziness: When to Seek Medical Help

Excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep issues related to the head?

Since this Monday, I have been experiencing a feeling of pressure in my head upon waking up, and I haven't been feeling very refreshed in the mornings.
Additionally, I've had some ear pain.
After seeing a doctor, I was prescribed antibiotics and cold medication.
However, starting from Tuesday, I have been having difficulty falling asleep; I go to bed around 10 to 11 PM but don't fall asleep until after 1 AM.
The pressure in my head (particularly in the back of my neck and head) becomes more pronounced when I lie down.

I still wake up in the morning feeling pressure in my head, and starting from noon, I feel extremely sleepy, often taking a nap from 3 PM to just after 4 PM.
After waking up, I feel very fatigued again by around 6 PM.
Throughout the day, I experience persistent pressure in the back of my head and excessive sleepiness, which is quite uncomfortable.
At night, I struggle to fall asleep until around 1 or 2 AM.

I would like to know if this is a normal situation for a cold, or if it could be side effects from the medication.
Sometimes, I almost fall asleep but suddenly wake up feeling strange, and occasionally I feel a bit nauseous.
I've been very worried that this might be a sign of some serious underlying condition.
I'm seeking advice from a doctor because I'm not sure why my cold symptoms have persisted for so many days.

Da En, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/06

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Based on your description, you have acute symptoms and changes after taking medication.
Since we cannot assess your condition online, I recommend that you visit a medical facility for evaluation and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2020/03/06

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding your recent sleep issues and accompanying symptoms. It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of sleep disturbances, daytime fatigue, and some physical discomfort, which can be quite distressing. Let's break down your symptoms and discuss when it might be appropriate to seek further medical help.

From what you've described, it appears that you have been experiencing difficulty falling asleep, waking up feeling unrefreshed, and experiencing a sensation of pressure in your head, particularly in the back of your neck and head. Additionally, you mentioned feelings of drowsiness throughout the day, which suggests that your sleep quality is significantly impaired. The fact that you are also experiencing ear pain could indicate an underlying issue, such as an ear infection or sinus congestion, which can sometimes accompany cold symptoms.

It is important to recognize that sleep disturbances can be multifactorial. In your case, the combination of a recent cold and the medications prescribed (such as cold medications) may be contributing to your sleep issues. Some over-the-counter cold medications can cause drowsiness, while others may lead to restlessness or difficulty sleeping, depending on their active ingredients. If you are taking a combination of medications, it is essential to review them with your healthcare provider to ensure that they are not interacting in a way that exacerbates your symptoms.

The sensation of pressure in your head, particularly when lying down, could be related to several factors, including sinus congestion, tension headaches, or even anxiety. If you find that your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, which could include a physical examination, imaging studies, or referral to a specialist, such as an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor, if they suspect an underlying issue with your sinuses or ears.

Regarding your sleep issues, it is crucial to establish a consistent sleep routine. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Create a relaxing bedtime routine that may include activities such as reading, gentle stretching, or meditation to help signal to your body that it is time to wind down. Avoiding screens and stimulating activities in the hour leading up to bedtime can also improve your ability to fall asleep.

If you continue to experience difficulty sleeping or if your daytime fatigue becomes unmanageable, it may be beneficial to consult a sleep specialist. They can conduct a sleep study to assess your sleep patterns and identify any potential sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be related to a common cold and the medications you are taking, the persistence of your sleep disturbances and daytime fatigue warrants further evaluation. Don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment. Your health and well-being are important, and seeking help is a proactive step toward finding relief.

Wishing you better sleep and improved health soon.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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