Dizziness and Body Sensations While Using Your Phone - Internal Medicine

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Dizziness with slight swaying of the body?


Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask about a situation I experience when lying on my side with a pillow while using my phone, or when lying face down on the bed.
Sometimes, I feel a slight swaying sensation in my body, which makes me think it might be a minor earthquake causing the bed to shake.
However, this sensation only occurs in certain positions, particularly when looking at my phone.
After I move my body, the swaying sensation goes away.
I'm unsure if this is dizziness or some other issue, but I don't experience this feeling when standing, sitting, or walking.
I would like to know if there is any problem related to this situation.
I previously visited an ENT specialist who conducted some tests, including hearing tests, and said everything was fine, advising me to ignore it unless I experienced severe vertigo.
I wonder if this could be due to poor posture affecting blood flow in my neck.
A traditional Chinese medicine practitioner mentioned this and advised me to go to bed earlier.
I plan to visit a large hospital for an appointment in the next couple of days.
Could you please advise me on what this might generally indicate or if there are ways to improve this situation? Thank you.

Aki, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/09

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine


Hello, the most common causes of dizziness are inner ear imbalance and brain issues.
Compression of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves in the neck may also lead to dizziness.
To determine the specific cause, it is necessary to consult a neurologist or an otolaryngologist at a major hospital for examination.
As for treatment options, it is essential to identify the underlying problem before administering appropriate remedies.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2023/03/09

More Info


Dizziness and unusual body sensations while using your phone can be concerning, and it's good that you're seeking to understand what's happening. Based on your description, it seems that the sensations you experience—feeling like your body is slightly swaying or that the bed is shaking—occur primarily when you're in certain positions, such as lying on your side or stomach while using your phone. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including posture, vestibular function, and even visual input.

When you lie in a position that may not be optimal for your neck and spine, it can lead to muscle tension or strain. Poor posture, especially when looking down at a phone for extended periods, can affect the alignment of your cervical spine (the neck region) and may compress blood vessels or nerves, leading to sensations of dizziness or lightheadedness. This is sometimes referred to as "text neck," a condition that arises from prolonged periods of looking down at devices.

Additionally, the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation, can be affected by changes in head position. If you are lying down and suddenly move your head or change positions, it can trigger a sensation of dizziness. This is particularly true if there is any underlying vestibular dysfunction, which may not have been evident during your previous ENT examination.

The fact that you do not experience dizziness when standing, sitting, or walking is a positive sign, suggesting that your balance and coordination are intact in those positions. However, it is essential to consider that the symptoms you describe could also be related to anxiety or stress, which can manifest physically in various ways, including dizziness.

To improve your situation, consider the following recommendations:
1. Posture Awareness: Be mindful of your posture while using your phone. Try to keep your neck aligned with your spine and avoid bending your head forward for long periods. Use a stand or prop your phone up to eye level to reduce strain.

2. Take Breaks: Regularly take breaks from looking at your phone. Stand up, stretch, and move around to relieve tension in your neck and shoulders.

3. Neck Exercises: Gentle neck stretches and exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce muscle tension. Consider consulting a physical therapist for personalized exercises.

4. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet, as dehydration and low blood sugar can contribute to dizziness.

5. Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize good sleep habits. Lack of sleep can exacerbate feelings of dizziness and fatigue.

6. Medical Follow-Up: Since you plan to visit a hospital soon, it would be wise to discuss your symptoms in detail with a healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, such as vestibular testing or imaging studies, to rule out any underlying conditions.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to posture and muscle tension, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation to rule out any other potential causes. Taking proactive steps to improve your posture and overall health can significantly help alleviate your symptoms.

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