Experiencing Dizziness While Sitting and Lying Down: Possible Causes and Solutions

Experiencing dizziness when lying down and a sensation of swaying while sitting?

Hello doctor, starting from a certain day, I suddenly feel very dizzy while sitting, and it often occurs.
However, it doesn't happen when I walk or exercise, and I experience vertigo when lying down.
Could this be cervical spondylosis? I sometimes look down at my electronic devices and my sitting posture is a bit incorrect.
Could it also be a vascular issue in the brain? How can I improve this? Thank you, doctor.

yy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/22

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Mr.
YY,
You mentioned that "one day I suddenly felt very dizzy while sitting, and it often occurs, but not when walking or exercising, and I experience vertigo when lying down." Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) should be considered first.
The characteristic symptoms include brief episodes of dizziness related to changes in head position, such as bending over, tilting back, lying down, getting up, rolling over, or suddenly turning the head.
These episodes may be accompanied by symptoms like nausea, vomiting, palpitations, cold sweats, and a feeling of weakness.
The causes are mostly unknown, but some may be due to inflammation, degeneration, or head trauma.
When symptoms occur, resting and using some antihistamine medications for dizziness, along with anxiolytics, can be very effective for symptom relief.
I recommend that you consult an otolaryngologist or a neurologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Department of Neurology, Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2022/07/22

More Info

Experiencing dizziness while sitting or lying down can be concerning and may stem from various underlying causes. It's essential to consider several factors when evaluating your symptoms, including your medical history, lifestyle, and any accompanying symptoms.
One potential cause of dizziness, especially when changing positions, is orthostatic hypotension, which occurs when blood pressure drops significantly upon standing or changing positions. This can lead to feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness. If you are experiencing dizziness primarily while sitting or lying down, it may not be directly related to orthostatic hypotension but could indicate other issues.

Another possibility is cervical vertigo, which can occur due to problems in the cervical spine, such as cervical spondylosis or muscle tension from poor posture, particularly if you spend long hours looking down at screens. This condition can lead to dizziness when you change positions, especially if the neck is involved. Poor posture can strain the neck muscles and affect blood flow, leading to dizziness.

Vestibular disorders are also a common cause of dizziness. These disorders affect the inner ear and balance system. Conditions such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) can cause dizziness when you change positions, like moving from sitting to lying down. BPPV is characterized by brief episodes of dizziness triggered by specific changes in head position.

Additionally, anxiety and stress can manifest physically, leading to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly in certain positions. If you have been under increased stress or anxiety, this could be contributing to your symptoms.

Neurological issues, such as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or other cerebrovascular problems, can also cause dizziness. While these are less common, they are serious and warrant immediate medical attention. If you experience other symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking, seek medical help promptly.

To address your symptoms, consider the following steps:
1. Posture Correction: Ensure that you maintain good posture while sitting. Use ergonomic furniture and take breaks to stretch your neck and back.

2. Hydration: Dehydration can contribute to dizziness. Ensure you are drinking enough fluids throughout the day.

3. Gradual Position Changes: When moving from sitting to standing or lying down, do so slowly to allow your body to adjust.

4. Neck Exercises: Gentle neck stretches and exercises can help alleviate tension and improve blood flow.

5. Limit Screen Time: If you spend extended periods on devices, take regular breaks to reduce strain on your neck and eyes.

6. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your dizziness persists or worsens, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests such as blood pressure monitoring, imaging studies, or vestibular assessments to determine the underlying cause.

In conclusion, while your symptoms could be related to cervical issues or vestibular disorders, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to rule out more serious conditions. Addressing lifestyle factors and seeking appropriate medical advice can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce dizziness.

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