Dizziness and Blurred Vision: Causes and Solutions

Dizziness/Blurred vision

Hello Doctor: I have been feeling normal before going out these past few days, but after being outside for a while, I started to feel unwell (cold sweats, rapid breathing, dizziness, blurred vision, gastrointestinal discomfort, dry mouth, tinnitus, etc.).
As I continued walking, the dizziness increased, and my vision went from slightly unclear to completely white.
When I feel it getting worse, I immediately squat down or sit, which usually helps improve the situation.
I wait until the dizziness subsides before slowly getting up to walk again.
However, recently, the symptoms have become more severe; even after sitting and resting for a while, I still feel a bit blurry in my vision, and after taking a few steps, the dizziness and blurred vision return, forcing me to squat or sit again.
This cycle of resting, dizziness, and resting continues, making it very difficult to return home.
These symptoms have made me anxious about going out, especially since I have previously fallen due to dizziness and sustained injuries.
My basic health status is as follows:
1.
I regularly donate blood, and my values are generally normal.
My blood pressure is around 100/60, and my blood oxygen levels are approximately 96-97.
2.
I often have cold hands and feet, and I am not sure why.
My lips lack color, and my fingernails are often purplish.
3.
In previous health check-ups, I had elevated platelet counts, but it was not significantly high, so no further tests were conducted.
Additionally, my serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (sGPT) levels were reported as low, and I am unsure if this has any implications.
4.
I have gastrointestinal issues and a poor appetite, often experiencing stomach pain and diarrhea.
5.
I have endometriosis (chocolate cyst) measuring 3.86 cm, for which I am taking medication (Danazol), and I have a few small uterine fibroids that my doctor has advised monitoring.
Common symptoms I experience in daily life include:
1.
I always feel dizzy when getting up from lying down, sitting, or squatting, but it usually resolves quickly.
2.
I easily feel dizzy when standing for long periods, especially while commuting (on the subway, train, etc.).
I often need to squat down to rest, and there have been times when I felt so dizzy that I couldn't stand.
I have been struggling with dizziness for a long time and hope you can provide some suggestions or ways to improve my condition.
Thank you very much for your attention, and I kindly ask for your response.

Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/08

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Ms.
Wu,
You mentioned that "standing for a long time makes you feel dizzy." Given the recent high temperatures, we should first consider mild heat syncope as a possible cause.
The primary reason is that in high-temperature outdoor environments, the microvasculature in the skin dilates, causing blood to pool in the lower body, which reduces blood flow to the brain, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness and weakness in the limbs.
Typically, resting in a cool place and lying down, along with replenishing vitamins, fluids, and electrolytes, can help alleviate these symptoms.

I wonder if you have been supplementing with electrolytes? Low sodium levels can also produce similar symptoms.
Mild hyponatremia may go unnoticed or only cause nausea and general weakness, but persistent sodium deficiency can lead to headaches and lethargy.
I recommend developing a habit of adequately hydrating and replenishing electrolytes.
Pay attention to whether your urine output has decreased or if the color has darkened.
If symptoms persist, I suggest consulting a neurologist or cardiologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/07/08

More Info

Dizziness and blurred vision can be concerning symptoms, especially when they interfere with daily activities and cause anxiety about going out. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several underlying issues. Let's break down the potential causes and solutions.

Potential Causes
1. Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition occurs when your blood pressure drops significantly upon standing up. Given your blood pressure readings (100/60), it is possible that you are experiencing low blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness and blurred vision, especially when changing positions quickly (e.g., standing up after sitting or lying down).

2. Dehydration: Symptoms like dry mouth, dizziness, and gastrointestinal discomfort can indicate dehydration. If you are not consuming enough fluids, especially in hot weather or after physical activity, this could exacerbate your symptoms.

3. Anemia: Your history of low blood pressure and symptoms like cold extremities and pale lips could suggest anemia, which can cause fatigue, dizziness, and weakness. It would be beneficial to check your hemoglobin levels and iron status.

4. Vestibular Disorders: Conditions affecting the inner ear can lead to dizziness and balance issues. If you have had episodes of vertigo or spinning sensations, this could be a contributing factor.

5. Medication Side Effects: If you are taking medications for your endometriosis or any other condition, it’s important to review them with your healthcare provider, as some can cause dizziness or changes in blood pressure.

6. Anxiety and Stress: Psychological factors can also manifest physically. Anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which may cause dizziness and visual disturbances.
7. Neurological Issues: While less likely, persistent dizziness and visual changes warrant consideration of neurological conditions. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary.

Suggested Solutions
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough fluids throughout the day. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily, and consider electrolyte solutions if you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms.

2. Dietary Adjustments: Eating small, frequent meals can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which may alleviate some dizziness. Include iron-rich foods (like leafy greens, beans, and lean meats) to combat potential anemia.

3. Gradual Position Changes: When moving from a sitting or lying position to standing, do so slowly to allow your body to adjust. This can help mitigate symptoms of orthostatic hypotension.

4. Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your blood pressure and symptoms. If you notice significant changes or worsening symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

5. Vestibular Rehabilitation: If your dizziness is related to balance issues, a physical therapist specializing in vestibular rehabilitation can provide exercises to improve balance and reduce dizziness.

6. Stress Management: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help manage anxiety and stress, which can contribute to physical symptoms.

7. Follow-Up with Healthcare Providers: Given your complex medical history, including endometriosis and previous blood tests, it’s crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider. Discuss your symptoms in detail and consider a referral to a specialist if necessary.

Conclusion
Your symptoms of dizziness and blurred vision can stem from various causes, including low blood pressure, dehydration, anemia, or vestibular disorders. It’s essential to approach this holistically, considering both physical and psychological factors. Regular monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and open communication with your healthcare provider will be key in managing your symptoms effectively. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.

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