Dizziness: Common Causes and When to Seek Help

Q: Dizziness: Common Causes and When to Seek Help

Dear Ms. Mei： 1. You should seek medical attention as soon as possible to clarify the underlying issues. 2. Dizziness should be evaluated for conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, posttrau

Dizziness and lightheadedness?

The initial symptoms were dizziness, with mild vertigo lasting for about three days.
After that, I started experiencing a sore throat, headaches, and fluctuating chills and fever while sleeping.
I felt short of breath, similar to palpitations, and would experience bouts of dizziness whenever I stood up.
I took medication for dizziness, but it didn't help.
I want to know what might be wrong with me, as I am unable to seek immediate medical attention while abroad.

Mei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/17

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
Mei:
1.
You should seek medical attention as soon as possible to clarify the underlying issues.
2.
Dizziness should be evaluated for conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, Meniere's disease, vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, posttraumatic vertigo, and superior canal dehiscence syndrome.
Neurological disorders should also be considered, including migraine-associated dizziness, vertebrobasilar insufficiency, demyelinating diseases, central nervous system disorders such as brain tumors, as well as other conditions like anxiety disorders, panic disorders, cervicogenic vertigo, medication side effects, and postural hypotension, among others.
Therefore, this often involves both otolaryngology and neurology.
3.
"Feeling short of breath is similar to palpitations." When clinicians address such issues, the first four critical conditions to rule out are myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, pneumothorax, and aortic dissection.
If none of these are present, differential diagnoses should include lung tumors, lung abscesses, pneumonia, tuberculosis, arrhythmias, congenital heart disease, myocardial ischemia, pericardial issues, gastroesophageal reflux disease, esophageal tumors, esophageal structural abnormalities, musculoskeletal problems, and neuritis, among others.
Of course, anxiety disorders, hypochondriasis, and psychoneurosis should also be considered.
4.
Additionally, your issue may simply be a respiratory tract infection, but without a physician's direct examination, it is impossible to draw conclusions.

Reply Date: 2022/02/17

More Info

Dizziness can be a perplexing symptom, and understanding its common causes is crucial for determining when to seek medical help. Dizziness can manifest in various forms, including lightheadedness, vertigo (a sensation of spinning), and unsteadiness. The symptoms you describe—dizziness, sore throat, headache, chills, and a feeling of breathlessness—could be indicative of several underlying conditions.

Common Causes of Dizziness
1. Vestibular Disorders: Conditions affecting the inner ear, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, or Meniere's disease, can lead to episodes of dizziness or vertigo. These conditions often present with a spinning sensation, particularly when changing positions.

2. Infections: Viral infections, such as the flu or COVID-19, can cause systemic symptoms including dizziness. Your sore throat and chills may suggest a viral infection, which could also lead to dizziness due to dehydration, fever, or systemic inflammation.

3. Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance: If you have been experiencing fever and chills, it is possible that you are dehydrated. Dehydration can lead to low blood volume, causing dizziness, especially when standing up quickly.

4. Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Anxiety can manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, and a feeling of breathlessness. If you are feeling anxious about your health, this could exacerbate your symptoms.

5. Cardiovascular Issues: Conditions such as orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing) can cause dizziness. If you feel faint or dizzy when standing up, this could be a sign that your blood pressure is dropping.

6. Neurological Conditions: While less common, dizziness can also be a symptom of neurological issues, such as migraines or even more serious conditions like a stroke. However, these would typically present with additional neurological symptoms.

When to Seek Help
Given the combination of symptoms you are experiencing—persistent dizziness, sore throat, headache, chills, and feelings of breathlessness—it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially if:
- The dizziness is severe or worsening.

- You experience additional symptoms such as chest pain, severe headache, or neurological symptoms (e.g., weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking).

- You have a history of cardiovascular or neurological issues.

- You are unable to manage your symptoms with over-the-counter medications.

Recommendations
1. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking enough fluids, especially if you have been experiencing fever or chills.

2. Rest: Allow your body to recover, especially if you suspect a viral infection.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any changes or worsening conditions.

4. Seek Medical Attention: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider visiting a healthcare provider. If you are abroad and unable to access immediate care, look for local clinics or telehealth services that can provide guidance.

5. Avoid Sudden Movements: If you feel dizzy, try to sit or lie down to prevent falls.

In conclusion, while dizziness can stem from various causes, the combination of your symptoms suggests that it would be prudent to seek medical evaluation. Early intervention can help identify the underlying cause and prevent potential complications.

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