Managing Dizziness and Headaches Before and After Menstruation

Dizziness before and after menstruation?

Hello, doctor.
I often experience dizziness and headaches before and after my menstrual period.
The dizziness worsens after my period starts, to the point where I sometimes need to lie in bed all day and can't do anything.
Occasionally, the dizziness persists until my period ends, and I also experience dizziness during ovulation.
This is very distressing.
Currently, I take brain health supplements every night before bed, but there hasn't been much improvement.
I have considered the possibility of anemia, but I had blood tests done in January, which showed a hemoglobin level of 13.7 and an average red blood cell volume of 86.8.
Do you think I need to visit a gynecologist for further blood tests, or do you have any other suggestions? Thank you.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/07

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the symptoms of dysmenorrhea can include not only lower abdominal cramps during menstruation but also nausea, vomiting, headaches, anxiety, fatigue, diarrhea, dizziness, bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, back pain, and fainting.
The onset of symptoms may occur 1-2 days before menstruation or during the menstrual period, with the most severe symptoms typically occurring in the first 48 hours.
It is estimated that 80-90% of women experience dysmenorrhea, with varying degrees of severity, often impacting work or academic performance.
Therefore, accurate diagnosis and treatment can help improve quality of life and work efficiency.
Dysmenorrhea can generally be classified into primary or secondary dysmenorrhea.
1.
Primary dysmenorrhea: This is caused by intrinsic mechanisms of the uterus, with no abnormalities in the pelvic structures; pelvic examinations and ultrasounds are normal.
Symptoms often begin 1-2 years after menarche, peaking between the ages of 23 and 27.
Women who experience early menarche, have heavier menstrual flow, have never given birth, are obese, have high socioeconomic status, are single, or are under stress may have more severe symptoms.
Symptoms often improve with age or after childbirth.
2.
Secondary dysmenorrhea: This arises from pathological changes in the pelvic organs, such as adenomyosis, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, pelvic inflammatory disease, or the presence of an intrauterine device (IUD), which may all be contributing factors.
These pathological factors can also be associated with infertility and dyspareunia, and treatment methods vary depending on the underlying cause.
It is recommended that if symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult a gynecologist for examination and treatment.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2023/06/07

More Info

Managing dizziness and headaches before and after menstruation can be quite challenging, especially when these symptoms significantly affect your daily life. Based on your description, it seems that you experience increased dizziness and headaches around your menstrual cycle, which can be indicative of several underlying issues, including hormonal fluctuations, potential anemia, or other gynecological conditions.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can lead to various symptoms, including headaches and dizziness. Many women experience migraines or tension-type headaches that can be triggered by the hormonal shifts that occur before and during menstruation. These headaches can be exacerbated by factors such as stress, dehydration, and lack of sleep, which are common during this time.

Your mention of dizziness worsening during your menstrual period could also be related to changes in blood volume and blood pressure that occur with menstruation. Some women experience a drop in blood pressure due to fluid loss, which can lead to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. Additionally, if you have heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), this can lead to a decrease in iron levels, potentially resulting in anemia, which could further contribute to your symptoms.

Given that your hemoglobin level is 13.7 g/dL, which is within the normal range for adult women, it may not indicate anemia. However, it is still worthwhile to consider other factors that could be contributing to your symptoms. For instance, you might want to check your ferritin levels, which reflect your body's iron stores, as well as your vitamin B12 and folate levels, which are crucial for red blood cell production.

Since you mentioned taking a medication called "腦清" (which I assume is a cognitive or neurological supplement), it is important to consult with your healthcare provider about its efficacy and whether it is appropriate for your symptoms. While it may help with cognitive function, it might not address the underlying causes of your headaches and dizziness.

Here are some recommendations that may help manage your symptoms:
1. Track Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur in relation to your menstrual cycle, diet, sleep patterns, and stress levels. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the cause of your symptoms.

2. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamins, and minerals. Foods such as leafy greens, lean meats, beans, and fortified cereals can help maintain your iron levels.

3. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can improve circulation and reduce stress, which may help alleviate headaches and dizziness.

4. Stress Management: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress, which may contribute to your symptoms.

5. Consult a Specialist: Since your symptoms are significantly affecting your quality of life, it may be beneficial to consult with a gynecologist or a headache specialist. They can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your menstrual cycle and may recommend treatments such as hormonal therapy, lifestyle modifications, or medications specifically for menstrual-related headaches.

6. Consider Medication Adjustments: If your current medication is not providing relief, discuss with your doctor the possibility of trying other treatments, such as NSAIDs for pain relief or preventive medications for migraines.

In conclusion, while your symptoms are common among many women, they can significantly impact your daily life. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, including potential blood tests and a review of your menstrual history, can help identify the underlying causes and lead to effective management strategies. Don't hesitate to seek further medical advice to ensure you receive the appropriate care and support.

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