Dizziness: Causes, Symptoms, and Duration

Q: Dizziness: Causes, Symptoms, and Duration

Hello, sir： You may want to consider two common issues： heat illness and cervical myofascial pain syndrome. <br>The primary cause is vasodilation of the skin microvasculature in high-temperature outdoor environments, leading to blood pooling in the lower body and a subsequent dec

Dizziness issues?

Hello doctor, I started feeling dizzy (not to the point of vertigo, but quite uncomfortable) from noon on May 26th.
I also have nausea and headaches (in my temples and the back of my head), along with shoulder and neck pain.
These symptoms have persisted until now.
Due to my work, I often have to keep my head turned to the left for extended periods.
Could you please advise what kind of issues this might be and how long it might last?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/03

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, sir: You may want to consider two common issues: heat illness and cervical myofascial pain syndrome.
The primary cause is vasodilation of the skin microvasculature in high-temperature outdoor environments, leading to blood pooling in the lower body and a subsequent decrease in cerebral blood flow, which can result in symptoms such as dizziness and weakness in the limbs.
Have you been supplementing with electrolytes? Low sodium levels can also produce similar symptoms; mild hyponatremia may go unnoticed or only cause nausea and general weakness.
However, persistent sodium deficiency can lead to headaches and lethargy.
It is advisable to develop a habit of adequately hydrating and replenishing electrolytes.
Pay attention to whether your urine output has decreased or if the color has darkened.

The more common cause of neck pain is cervical myofascial pain: prolonged forward head posture can lead to overuse of the trapezius muscle at the back of the neck, resulting in neck and shoulder discomfort.
Initially, resting may alleviate the pain, but it can progressively worsen and disrupt normal activities.
Some patients report experiencing severe neck pain upon waking, accompanied by stiffness and tightness that can be intolerable.
It is recommended to change positions regularly: shift your posture every 15 minutes to allow the neck tissues to rest.
Any sustained posture, even a normal one, can lead to tissue fatigue and inflammation, so moving around frequently can reduce the risk of muscle inflammation.
Typically, with inflammation, supplementing with vitamins and maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance can lead to symptom improvement within a week.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/06/03

More Info

Dizziness is a common complaint that can arise from a variety of causes, and understanding its underlying mechanisms is crucial for effective management. Based on your description of symptoms, including dizziness, nausea, headaches (particularly in the temples and back of the head), and neck and shoulder pain, several potential causes can be considered.

Firstly, it’s important to differentiate between the types of dizziness. The sensation you describe does not seem to be vertigo, which is characterized by a spinning sensation. Instead, it sounds more like a feeling of lightheadedness or imbalance, which can be associated with several conditions.

One common cause of dizziness is cervical vertigo, which can occur due to neck strain or injury. Given that you mentioned needing to hold your head in a certain position for extended periods due to work, it’s possible that muscle tension in the neck could be contributing to your symptoms. This tension can lead to referred pain and discomfort, which may manifest as headaches and dizziness.

Another possibility is vestibular dysfunction, which can arise from issues within the inner ear. Conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or labyrinthitis can cause dizziness and may be exacerbated by head movements. However, your symptoms of nausea and headache suggest that there may be more than just vestibular involvement.

Migraines can also present with dizziness, particularly in individuals who experience migraine-associated vertigo. This could explain the headache component of your symptoms. Additionally, tension-type headaches, which are often related to muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, can also cause dizziness.

Dehydration or low blood pressure can lead to dizziness, especially if you have not been drinking enough fluids or if you have been under stress. It’s essential to ensure you are well-hydrated and to monitor your blood pressure, especially if you feel lightheaded upon standing.

In terms of duration, it can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause. If your symptoms are related to muscle tension, they may improve with rest, proper posture, and possibly physical therapy. If they are due to a vestibular issue or migraines, they may require specific treatments, including medications or vestibular rehabilitation exercises.

It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any structural issues, and they may also perform vestibular testing to assess inner ear function. Treatment options will depend on the diagnosis but may include physical therapy, medications for migraine or vestibular symptoms, and lifestyle modifications to reduce neck strain.

In summary, dizziness can stem from various causes, including muscle tension, vestibular dysfunction, migraines, or even systemic issues like dehydration. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment plan. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical attention promptly is crucial to ensure proper management and to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

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