Post-Anesthesia Dizziness: Causes and Concerns - Neurology

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Questions about dizziness for my mother?


Mother underwent general anesthesia for a bladder endoscopy and resection surgery from February 23 to February 25.
After the anesthesia, she experienced mild headache for one night, which resolved the next morning upon discharge.
However, starting from March 4 (Friday), she began to experience dizziness (localized at the temples), headache (also at the temples), and nausea.
This dizziness was not vertiginous; sometimes while walking, she would notice veering to the right and would quickly correct herself.
The dizziness persisted until March 8 (Tuesday), when she measured her blood pressure at over 140 and went to the neurology outpatient clinic.
She underwent several tests (she forgot to mention the issue of veering to the right while walking) and was scheduled for a carotid ultrasound on March 16 (Wednesday).
She was prescribed antihypertensive medication to take when her blood pressure exceeded 140, but it was only in the range of 10X to 12X, so she did not take it.
Additionally, a urinalysis indicated a possible infection due to an unhealed bladder wound.
From March 2 to March 8, she exhibited symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
On March 10, she started antibiotics and urinary analgesics for three days, during which the dizziness continued, but the headaches became occasional.
On March 12 (Saturday), after dinner, her dizziness worsened, prompting a visit to the emergency department.
Blood tests showed the following results: HCT: 35.6%, PCT: 0.16%, %MONO: 12.3%, BUN: 22, with the rest being normal.
An ECG was normal, and she was given medication for dizziness and to increase cerebral blood flow, which alleviated her symptoms.
A CT scan of the head indicated no bleeding or structural abnormalities.
After discharge, she was prescribed Betahistine Dihydrochloride for three days, which was effective, but the dizziness returned when she did not take it.
She also had Cinnarizine on hand but did not take it regularly.
Her cholesterol was slightly elevated (>200) but untreated, and she has a long history of bilateral tinnitus, with the left ear being more pronounced, only noticeable at night as a buzzing sound.
On March 14 (Monday), she checked her health records and saw the CT report, which stated: "Findings: Computed tomography of the BRAIN was performed without intravenous contrast administration.
Findings: 1.
A lacunar infarct at the left lentiform nucleus without acute intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) or mass lesion is noted.
2.
The ventricles are normal in appearance.
3.
Normal mastoid air cells, no evidence of mastoiditis.
4.
The paranasal sinuses are clear.
5.
Please compare with clinical findings and follow up.
IMPRESSION: 1.
A lacunar infarct at the left lentiform nucleus without acute ICH or mass lesion is noted." Could this lacunar infarct at the left lentiform nucleus be the cause of her persistent dizziness and veering to the right? It is unclear whether this is old or new (the CT was performed eight days after the onset of symptoms).
If Betahistine Dihydrochloride is effective, could this indicate a problem related to the cerebral infarction or an ear issue? Does an MRI of the head and neck allow for visualization of the inner and middle ear? She has been experiencing dizziness for 12 days since March 4.
Please assist in evaluating her condition, Dr.
Jiang.

Mr. Chen, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/15

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology


Hello Mr.
Chen: You mentioned "lacunar infarct at the left lentiform nucleus," which refers to a small infarct in the left lentiform nucleus.
This may be related to motor function.
However, it is still necessary to assess the relevant neurological functions.

Regarding your question, "Can an MRI of the head and neck visualize the inner and middle ear?" it cannot capture fine structures.
Additionally, an evaluation by an otolaryngologist or neurologist is required for related functions, and auditory evoked potentials are often used in conjunction.
Clinically, it is also important to assess the vascular status of the brain in the relevant areas to determine clinical management.

I recommend that you consult with an otolaryngologist or a neurologist to discuss examination and treatment options.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions further! Wishing you good health and peace.

Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2022/03/15

More Info


Post-anesthesia dizziness can be a concerning symptom, especially following a procedure that involves general anesthesia, such as the bladder endoscopy you mentioned. The symptoms you describe—dizziness, headaches, and a feeling of imbalance—can arise from several factors related to anesthesia, the surgical procedure itself, or underlying health conditions.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that general anesthesia can affect the central nervous system, leading to temporary side effects such as dizziness and headaches. These effects can be exacerbated by factors like dehydration, pain medications, or even anxiety related to the surgery. In your case, the dizziness that began after your surgery could be attributed to residual effects of the anesthesia, especially if you experienced a headache that night.
Moreover, your symptoms of dizziness, particularly the sensation of veering to one side, could indicate a vestibular issue. The vestibular system, which helps control balance, can be affected by various factors, including infections, inflammation, or even changes in blood pressure. Given that you experienced a urinary tract infection post-surgery, it’s possible that systemic infection could contribute to your dizziness and overall malaise.

The CT findings you mentioned, specifically the lacunar infarct at the left lentiform nucleus, are significant. Lacunar infarcts are small, deep brain lesions often associated with chronic hypertension or diabetes. They can lead to various neurological symptoms, including dizziness, imbalance, and cognitive changes. The fact that you have a history of elevated cholesterol and possibly hypertension (as indicated by your blood pressure readings) raises the concern that this infarct could be contributing to your current symptoms. It’s essential to follow up with a neurologist to assess the implications of this finding and to determine whether it is an old or new infarct.

The medications you are taking, such as Betahistine Dihydrochloride and Cinnarizine, are typically used to treat vestibular disorders and can help alleviate symptoms of dizziness. Their effectiveness suggests that your dizziness may have a vestibular component, but it does not rule out the possibility of neurological involvement due to the lacunar infarct.

Regarding your question about MRI, it is indeed a more sensitive imaging modality than CT for evaluating soft tissue structures, including the brain and inner ear. An MRI can provide more detailed information about the brain's structure and any potential lesions, as well as the condition of the inner ear, which is crucial for balance. If dizziness persists, an MRI of the brain and possibly the inner ear may be warranted to rule out any additional issues.

In summary, your ongoing symptoms of dizziness and imbalance warrant careful evaluation. The combination of post-anesthesia effects, potential vestibular dysfunction, and the presence of a lacunar infarct suggests a multifactorial issue that should be addressed comprehensively. It is advisable to continue working closely with your healthcare providers, including a neurologist, to monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as necessary. Regular follow-ups and possibly further imaging studies will be essential in managing your condition effectively.

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