Post-COVID Dizziness and Insomnia: When to Seek ENT Help?

Q: Post-COVID Dizziness and Insomnia: When to Seek ENT Help?

Hello, dizziness can have numerous potential causes： 1) If there is a dull pain in the left posterior part of the head -> it may suggest poor blood circulation in the head and neck. <br>2) If accompanied by ear fullness, ear pressure, or hearing loss -> it may indicate sudden sen

Dizziness and insomnia?

It has been two weeks since I tested negative for COVID-19, but I experience dizziness every day.
When the dizziness feels intense, it's like being on a wave, making it difficult to think.
When the dizziness is mild, it's more manageable.
Additionally, I have trouble sleeping, and my sleep schedule is inconsistent with the dizziness.
Could this be a post-viral syndrome after my diagnosis? Which specialist should I consult?

Ba, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/27

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, dizziness can have numerous potential causes: 1) If there is a dull pain in the left posterior part of the head -> it may suggest poor blood circulation in the head and neck.
2) If accompanied by ear fullness, ear pressure, or hearing loss -> it may indicate sudden sensorineural hearing loss, Meniere's disease, or acute labyrinthitis.
3) If symptoms worsen with head movement -> it may suggest benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).
Other conditions such as vestibular neuritis, migraine-associated vertigo, orthostatic hypotension, hyperlipidemia, and brain lesions are also among the diagnoses for dizziness.
If there are also sleep issues, it is advisable to undergo a sleep study concurrently when visiting an otolaryngologist.
It is recommended to seek further evaluation and treatment from either an otolaryngologist or a neurologist for the above concerns.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2022/10/27

More Info

Post-COVID conditions, often referred to as "long COVID," can manifest in various ways, including dizziness and insomnia, as you've described. It's not uncommon for individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 to experience lingering symptoms that affect their daily lives. The symptoms you're experiencing, such as persistent dizziness and sleep disturbances, can indeed be related to your recent COVID-19 infection.

Dizziness can be a multifaceted symptom that may arise from several underlying issues. In the context of post-COVID syndrome, it could be related to vestibular dysfunction, which affects balance and spatial orientation. The virus may have impacted the inner ear or central nervous system, leading to sensations of dizziness that can feel like being on a boat or experiencing waves. This can also be compounded by anxiety or stress, which are common in the aftermath of a significant illness.

Insomnia is another prevalent issue reported by many recovering from COVID-19. Sleep disturbances can arise from various factors, including anxiety about health, changes in routine, or even the physiological effects of the virus itself. The body's stress response may remain heightened, making it difficult to achieve restful sleep. Furthermore, the relationship between sleep and cognitive function is critical; poor sleep can exacerbate feelings of dizziness and cognitive fog, creating a vicious cycle.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek help from a healthcare professional. An Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist can be particularly helpful in assessing dizziness, especially if it is suspected to be related to vestibular issues. They can conduct tests to evaluate your balance and inner ear function. Additionally, if your dizziness is accompanied by other neurological symptoms, a referral to a neurologist may also be warranted to rule out any other underlying conditions.

In terms of managing your insomnia, it might be beneficial to adopt good sleep hygiene practices. This includes maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine close to bedtime. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is another effective treatment that focuses on changing thoughts and behaviors that contribute to sleep problems.

Moreover, if your dizziness and insomnia persist, consider discussing your symptoms with your primary care physician. They can help coordinate your care and may suggest additional treatments, such as vestibular rehabilitation therapy for dizziness or medications to help with sleep.

In summary, your symptoms of dizziness and insomnia following COVID-19 are not uncommon and can be part of the post-COVID syndrome. Seeking evaluation from an ENT specialist is a good first step, and addressing sleep hygiene and potential anxiety can further aid in your recovery. Always remember to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and any changes you experience.

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