Persistent Dizziness: Causes and Connections to Heart Symptoms

Persistent dizziness throughout the day?

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing dizziness for almost a week now, which varies in intensity throughout the day.
It feels more like a heavy sensation in my head, sometimes accompanied by tingling, resembling a shaking sensation like an earthquake, but I do not experience the spinning sensation described in some articles.
Could you please advise what this might indicate? Additionally, considering that I had episodes of chest tightness and palpitations a few weeks ago (which have since improved), I would like to know if there is a connection between these two issues.
Thank you for your response.

JAM, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/23

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Mr.
JAM,
You mentioned experiencing a sensation of heaviness in your head along with tingling symptoms, which may indicate a potential issue with nerve root compression.
Conditions such as cervical disc degeneration, facet joint degeneration, and cervical disc herniation can lead to such symptoms.
When there is a pathological change in the cervical spine, it can cause neck pain and stiffness, and if it compresses nearby nerve roots, it may result in pain that radiates to the shoulders, arms, and hands, causing discomfort.
Regarding the "chest tightness and palpitations" you mentioned, these symptoms may be more related to discomfort rather than being caused by cervical degeneration.
I recommend consulting with a neurologist or a rehabilitation specialist for further discussion and treatment.
Please ensure to practice self-protection, maintain cleanliness and disinfection, and adhere to new preventive measures before and after your medical visits.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions further!
Wishing you good health, safety, and happiness.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Tao Medical Center

Reply Date: 2021/09/23

More Info

Persistent dizziness can be a perplexing symptom, and understanding its potential causes is essential for effective management. Given your description of feeling "heavy-headed" and experiencing occasional tingling sensations, it is important to consider various factors that could contribute to your symptoms.
Dizziness can arise from a multitude of sources, including vestibular disorders, neurological issues, cardiovascular problems, and even psychological factors. In your case, the recent history of chest tightness and palpitations raises the question of whether there might be a cardiovascular connection to your dizziness.
1. Cardiovascular Causes: Dizziness can occur when there is inadequate blood flow to the brain, which can be due to various heart-related issues. Conditions such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing), or even heart valve problems can lead to symptoms of dizziness. Given your previous episodes of palpitations and chest discomfort, it would be prudent to have a thorough cardiovascular evaluation. This may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, and possibly a Holter monitor to assess your heart rhythm over a period of time.

2. Vestibular Disorders: The inner ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. Conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Meniere's disease can cause dizziness that feels like the room is spinning (vertigo) or a sensation of imbalance. While you mentioned that your dizziness does not feel like the typical spinning sensation, it is still worth considering a referral to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further evaluation.

3. Neurological Issues: Neurological conditions, including migraines, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or even more serious conditions like multiple sclerosis, can present with dizziness. If your dizziness is accompanied by other neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or changes in vision, it is critical to seek immediate medical attention.

4. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, and chest discomfort. If you have been experiencing increased stress or anxiety, it may be beneficial to explore these aspects with a healthcare provider.

5. Other Considerations: Dehydration, anemia, and medication side effects can also contribute to dizziness. Given your previous report of low hemoglobin levels, it may be worthwhile to check your blood counts again to rule out anemia as a contributing factor.

In summary, while your dizziness may not seem directly related to your previous heart symptoms, the two could be interconnected, particularly if there are underlying cardiovascular issues. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a detailed history, physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic tests. This will help determine the cause of your dizziness and guide you toward the most effective treatment options.
In the meantime, ensure you stay well-hydrated, avoid sudden changes in position, and take note of any additional symptoms that may arise. Keeping a symptom diary can also be helpful for your healthcare provider in understanding the pattern and triggers of your dizziness.

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