Dizziness, bilateral temple pain, and blurred vision?
Hello Dr.
Tsai, my mother has been experiencing dizziness for over two years, with more severe episodes occurring around November to December and January to February each year.
Recently, in the past two months, she has also been experiencing bilateral temple pain and blurred vision.
She has mild hypertension and hyperlipidemia.
We took her to a major hospital's neurology department, and after taking the prescribed medication, she has been feeling drowsy.
However, her dizziness and other symptoms have not improved.
Could you please help us understand the possible causes of her dizziness, temple pain, and blurred vision? Thank you.
Here are the medications prescribed by the hospital: 1.
Alinamin-F 50 2.
Fluzine 3.
Diphenidol.
Grace, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/28
Dr. Cai Zongzhang reply Neurology
Hello: Based on the described symptoms, cerebrovascular circulation disorders are a possible cause.
The use of the aforementioned medications is appropriate; however, if drowsiness occurs, it is advisable to reduce the dosage.
It is recommended to consult a neurologist.
Reply Date: 2020/12/28
More Info
Understanding the symptoms of dizziness, temple pain, and blurred vision can be complex, especially when they persist over an extended period, as in your mother's case. Given her history of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, these factors could contribute to her symptoms.
Dizziness can arise from various causes, including vestibular disorders, cardiovascular issues, or neurological conditions. In your mother's case, the fact that her dizziness worsens during specific months could suggest a seasonal component, potentially linked to environmental factors or changes in routine. For instance, colder months might lead to less physical activity or changes in blood pressure regulation, which could exacerbate her symptoms.
The temple pain she experiences could be tension-type headaches or migraines, which are often associated with stress, anxiety, or muscle tension. These headaches can manifest as a feeling of tightness or pressure around the temples and may be accompanied by dizziness. The blurred vision she reports could be a result of several factors, including eye strain, particularly if she spends extended periods looking at screens or reading, or it could be related to the headaches themselves.
The medications prescribed to her—Alinamin-F, Fluzine, and Diphenidol—serve different purposes. Alinamin-F is often used to support nerve health and may help with fatigue. Fluzine (Flunarizine) is a calcium channel blocker that can help with migraine prevention and may assist in reducing dizziness. Diphenidol is an antiemetic that can help with nausea and dizziness. However, if she is experiencing excessive sleepiness as a side effect of these medications, it may be worth discussing with her doctor, as this could impact her quality of life and overall well-being.
Given that her symptoms have not improved significantly, it may be beneficial to consider a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
1. Neurological Assessment: Since dizziness and blurred vision can be indicative of neurological issues, a thorough examination by a neurologist may be warranted. This could include imaging studies like an MRI to rule out any structural abnormalities.
2. Cardiovascular Evaluation: Given her history of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, it would be prudent to assess her cardiovascular health. This could involve monitoring her blood pressure more closely, conducting an echocardiogram, or performing stress tests to evaluate her heart's function.
3. Ophthalmological Examination: Since blurred vision is a significant symptom, an eye exam to check for refractive errors, cataracts, or other ocular conditions is essential. Sometimes, vision problems can contribute to dizziness and headaches.
4. Lifestyle Modifications: Encouraging your mother to engage in regular physical activity, maintain a balanced diet, and manage stress through relaxation techniques could help alleviate some of her symptoms. Additionally, ensuring she stays hydrated and gets adequate sleep is crucial.
5. Medication Review: If her current medications are causing excessive drowsiness, it may be necessary to revisit her treatment plan with her healthcare provider. Adjusting dosages or switching to alternative medications could improve her symptoms without compromising her alertness.
In summary, the combination of dizziness, temple pain, and blurred vision in your mother could stem from multiple interconnected factors, including her existing health conditions and the side effects of her medications. A multidisciplinary approach involving her primary care physician, neurologist, cardiologist, and ophthalmologist may provide a clearer understanding of her symptoms and lead to more effective management strategies. It’s essential to advocate for her health and ensure she receives the comprehensive care she needs.
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