Recurring Dizziness: Causes, Treatments, and Insurance Coverage

Q: Recurring Dizziness: Causes, Treatments, and Insurance Coverage

Primrose： Regarding your question, it is actually not my area of expertise. <br>I still recommend that you consult your original physician at the Department of Neurology at National Taiwan University, especially since your original condition has improved with treatment. <br>Recur

Could you please provide more details or specify your question regarding dizziness?

Hello Doctor, I started experiencing symptoms of dizziness at the end of last year.
Previously, I was diagnosed with basilar-type migraine at the dizziness clinic at National Taiwan University Hospital.
After taking medication for three months, the symptoms recurred six months later, although my diet and lifestyle have been quite stable; however, my sleep quality has not been good.
What could be the possible reasons for the recurrence? Recently, I have been seeing a neurologist for three months.
After blood tests and X-rays, the doctor mentioned that my spine seems to have been injured, and prescribed me medications for rheumatic pain, muscle relaxants, stool softeners, and medications for bloating.
However, the dizziness symptoms still occur mildly and frequently.
How long should I continue taking these medications? Should I consider consulting another specialist (I also suspect it might be autonomic nervous system dysfunction)? Additionally, when I visited National Taiwan University last year, I received medications for 10 to 14 days, and I only had to pay a small amount beyond the National Health Insurance fee.
Now, I am only getting medications for 7 to 10 days, but I often have to pay several hundred dollars out of pocket (the nurse informed me that the National Health Insurance does not cover it).
Are the medications for dizziness not fully covered by the National Health Insurance now? Thank you!

Primrose, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/06/17

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry

Primrose: Regarding your question, it is actually not my area of expertise.
I still recommend that you consult your original physician at the Department of Neurology at National Taiwan University, especially since your original condition has improved with treatment.
Recurrence of the disease is a possibility, and it is important to determine whether the discontinuation of medication has led to this recurrence or if there are other potential causes.
You should communicate thoroughly with your physician and not hesitate to ask questions.
While some doctors may not be willing to spend too much time explaining, it is still possible to seek their professional advice patiently.

As for the issue of medication days, it is possible that changes in the national health insurance system have led to increased out-of-pocket expenses due to hospital cost considerations.
You can directly report to the National Health Insurance Administration if you find this unreasonable.
After all, receiving treatment at a medical center typically incurs higher costs.
It might be worth checking local clinics to see if they offer similar prescriptions, as seeking care closer to home can also be a good option.
Additionally, regarding the possibility of autonomic nervous system dysfunction, it seems difficult to determine from your letter.
However, since your physician has clearly informed you that your dizziness is caused by basilar-type migraine, it would be prudent to address this issue first.
Of course, it is also possible that there may be concurrent autonomic nervous system issues.
Symptoms in this area may include not only some physiological signs but also anxiety and stress-related symptoms.
Wishing you well.

Reply Date: 2004/06/17

More Info

Dizziness can be a perplexing and frustrating symptom, especially when it recurs despite treatment. Your history of being diagnosed with basilar-type migraine and the subsequent episodes of dizziness suggest that there may be multiple underlying factors contributing to your condition.
Firstly, let's address the potential causes of your recurring dizziness. Basilar-type migraine, a subtype of migraine, can lead to dizziness and other neurological symptoms. It's not uncommon for individuals with this condition to experience recurrent episodes, especially if there are triggers that are not being adequately managed. Triggers can include stress, lack of sleep, dietary factors, and even hormonal changes. Given that you mentioned having poor sleep, this could be a significant contributing factor. Sleep disturbances can exacerbate migraine conditions and lead to increased frequency of dizziness.

Additionally, your recent visit to a neurologist who noted potential spinal issues could also be relevant. Spinal injuries or conditions, particularly in the cervical region, can lead to dizziness due to their impact on the nervous system and blood flow. The medications prescribed, including muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory drugs, may help alleviate some symptoms, but they might not address the root cause of the dizziness.
In terms of treatment duration, it can vary significantly based on the underlying cause. If your dizziness is primarily due to migraines, it may require ongoing management with preventive medications, lifestyle modifications, and possibly physical therapy. If spinal issues are contributing, addressing those through appropriate therapies or interventions may also be necessary. It may be beneficial to consult with a physical therapist who specializes in vestibular rehabilitation, which can help improve balance and reduce dizziness.

Regarding your concerns about insurance coverage, it's important to note that coverage for medications can vary widely based on the specific plan and the medications prescribed. Some migraine medications may not be fully covered under certain insurance plans, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs. It would be advisable to contact your insurance provider directly to inquire about the specifics of your coverage for dizziness-related medications. They can provide clarity on which medications are covered and any potential alternatives that may be more affordable.

If your symptoms persist despite treatment, it may be worthwhile to seek a second opinion or consult with a specialist in a different field, such as an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) or a neurologist with a focus on vestibular disorders. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and may suggest additional diagnostic tests to rule out other potential causes of your dizziness.

In summary, recurring dizziness can stem from a variety of factors, including migraines, spinal issues, and lifestyle factors such as sleep quality. Ongoing management may be necessary, and it's essential to work closely with your healthcare providers to tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. Additionally, clarifying your insurance coverage can help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with managing your condition.

Similar Q&A

Persistent Dizziness for Two Weeks: Possible Causes and Next Steps

On August 25, I suddenly started experiencing dizziness, headaches, pain around my right eye, vomiting, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen, especially with text, which made me feel nauseous. My vision has been somewhat blurry. I visited an ophthalmologist, who found m...

Dr. Peng Shiwei reply Neurology
Hello, whether you need to undergo a CT scan should be discussed with your attending physician. Thank you for your question.

Understanding Persistent Dizziness: When to Seek Treatment and Management Tips

Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing dizziness, but it is not severe and does not affect my daily life. The symptoms usually occur suddenly, making me feel like I'm swaying, and they are particularly noticeable in crowded places. I have previously undergone tests and ther...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello Ms. Chen, You mentioned that you "suddenly feel a sense of swaying, often thinking it's an earthquake, or that the symptoms become particularly pronounced in crowded situations." There are many causes of dizziness. If your dizziness is related to your menstr...

Understanding My Mental and Physical Health Struggles: A Personal Journey

Hello Doctor: I started experiencing dizziness at the end of February this year. At that time, my band was preparing for a national student music competition. I visited a local clinic near my school, where the doctor pressed on the back of my neck and noted that it was particular...

Dr. Huang Jiabin reply Psychiatry
Hello: Thank you for your hard work. Deciding to open up about your life story may have come after much hesitation and contemplation, and it is not an easy task. However, it is fortunate that you have shared these experiences that are often difficult to express, as you may have d...

Unexplained Dizziness: Navigating Neurological Concerns and Next Steps

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing continuous dizziness for a week (at times, it feels like there is a force pushing my eyeballs outward), slight imbalance while walking, and decreased dexterity in my hands. Occasionally, I have tremors, nausea, and diarrhea. During this peri...

Dr. Lin Zijing reply Neurology
The causes of dizziness can be broadly categorized into the following: 1. Vestibular disorders: Such as motion sickness, viral infections, abnormal displacement of otoliths, and Meniere's disease. 2. Visual disorders: For instance, wearing glasses with an incorrect prescrip...