Dizziness After an Earthquake: Is It Normal?

Dizziness issues?

Hello doctor, I just had lunch at home in Taipei when a strong earthquake suddenly struck.
I quickly ran to crouch next to the refrigerator's support beam, and it felt very frightening.
After the earthquake, I experienced a slight dizziness; it wasn't spinning or swaying, and I didn't feel nauseous, but it felt more like a heaviness.
It took about 5 to 10 minutes for me to feel better, and now I feel much improved—it's as if I don't think about it, and the feeling goes away.
I'm wondering if this phenomenon is normal, or if it could be related to my recent late nights.
I just asked my mom, and she said she also feels dizzy, but my dad doesn't feel anything.
Thank you.

Yun Yun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/24

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, unless there is a head injury, an earthquake itself typically does not have a direct impact on the head.
Dizziness is likely related to lifestyle factors, and adequate rest should help.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2021/10/24

More Info

Experiencing dizziness after a significant event like an earthquake can be quite common and is often a result of several factors, both physiological and psychological. In your case, the dizziness you felt after the earthquake, which lasted for about 5-10 minutes and resolved on its own, can be attributed to a few potential causes.

Firstly, during an earthquake, the body undergoes a stress response. This response can trigger the release of adrenaline and other stress hormones, which can lead to a temporary feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness. This is particularly true if you were startled or frightened, as the body's fight-or-flight response can affect your balance and perception. The sensation you described as "heavy" or "沉沉的" might be linked to this acute stress response, which can cause a temporary imbalance in the vestibular system, the part of the inner ear responsible for maintaining balance.

Secondly, the physical act of crouching down for safety during the earthquake could also contribute to feelings of dizziness. When you crouch, especially if you were tense or anxious, it can affect blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, leading to a brief episode of lightheadedness. Additionally, if you were dehydrated or had not eaten adequately before the earthquake, this could exacerbate feelings of dizziness.

Moreover, your mention of having been sleeping late recently could also play a role. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue and decreased cognitive function, which may make you more susceptible to feelings of dizziness or disorientation, especially in stressful situations. It’s also worth noting that individual responses to stress can vary significantly; your mother’s experience of dizziness while your father did not feel anything could be attributed to differences in their stress responses, health conditions, or even hydration levels.

In general, if the dizziness was transient and resolved quickly without any other concerning symptoms (like severe headache, persistent nausea, or changes in vision), it is likely not a cause for alarm. However, if you experience recurrent dizziness, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
In summary, the dizziness you experienced after the earthquake can be considered a normal response to a stressful and frightening event. It is essential to listen to your body and ensure you are well-hydrated, well-rested, and managing stress effectively. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice would be prudent to rule out any underlying conditions.

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