Dizziness, Nausea, and Back Pain: When to Seek Help

Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting?

Hello, I have a few questions I would like to ask.

1.
I need to use a computer at work, but recently, whenever I stare at the screen for too long, I suddenly feel dizzy (with a sensation of body swaying, as if I'm about to faint).
I immediately close my eyes to rest, and the dizziness improves.
However, from morning until afternoon, I feel a tightness in my chest and experience nausea.
By evening, the condition improves.
What could be causing this? Is it really related to the computer? Would seeing a doctor help? Which specialty should I consult? Thank you.
2.
A few days ago at work, I suddenly felt sharp pain on both sides of my spine.
I couldn't bend over and had to keep my back straight to avoid the pain, but after about half an hour, it resolved.
Why did this happen? I have not experienced this before.
However, I sometimes feel that my sleep quality is poor, and I wake up with shoulder pain.
Is there a connection? What could be causing this?
P.S.
I am a carrier of Hepatitis B; I wonder if that is related.
Thank you.

Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/12

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine

1.
There are many causes of dizziness, such as Meniere's disease, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, anemia, hypertension or hypotension, and migraines that can also lead to dizziness.
The most important thing is to identify the cause and provide targeted treatment.
You can visit a family medicine, otolaryngology, or internal medicine clinic for treatment.
Chronic Hepatitis B carriers often experience fatigue and excessive sleepiness.

2.
Sudden pain on both sides of the spine may indicate issues related to the neuromuscular system in the lower back or shoulders, or problems related to the kidneys and urinary tract.
You can seek diagnosis and treatment at a family medicine or internal medicine clinic.

Reply Date: 2005/05/12

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding dizziness, nausea, and back pain. Let's break down your questions and provide some insights based on medical knowledge.

Question 1: Dizziness and Nausea Related to Computer Use
You mentioned experiencing dizziness and a sensation of swaying after prolonged computer use, which improves after resting your eyes. This could be related to several factors:
1. Eye Strain: Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include headaches, blurred vision, and dizziness. The discomfort you feel in your chest and the nausea may be secondary to the stress and tension associated with eye strain.

2. Posture: Sitting for long periods, especially in a poor posture, can lead to muscle tension in the neck and back, which can contribute to dizziness and discomfort.

3. Dehydration or Hunger: Sometimes, not drinking enough water or skipping meals can lead to dizziness and nausea. Ensure you are well-hydrated and have regular meals.

4. Anxiety: If you feel anxious about your work or the tasks at hand, this can manifest as physical symptoms, including dizziness and nausea.

Given that your symptoms improve in the evening, it might suggest that they are related to your work environment or routine rather than a serious underlying condition. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. An eye exam by an optometrist or ophthalmologist could be beneficial, as they can assess for any vision issues. Additionally, a visit to a primary care physician or a neurologist may help rule out other causes of dizziness.

Question 2: Sudden Back Pain
The sudden onset of pain on either side of your spine, which resolves after about half an hour, could be due to several reasons:
1. Muscle Strain: This is the most common cause of sudden back pain. It can occur from awkward movements, lifting heavy objects, or even prolonged sitting in a poor posture.

2. Nerve Irritation: Conditions like sciatica or a herniated disc can cause sudden pain that may resolve quickly but could return if the underlying issue is not addressed.

3. Poor Sleep Quality: You mentioned experiencing poor sleep and waking up with shoulder pain. This could indicate that your sleeping position or mattress is not supportive enough, leading to muscle tension and pain.

4. B Hepatitis: While being a carrier of Hepatitis B generally does not directly cause back pain, it’s essential to monitor your liver health, as liver issues can sometimes lead to referred pain in the back.

Recommendations
1. Ergonomics: Ensure your workstation is ergonomically set up. Your computer screen should be at eye level, and you should take regular breaks to rest your eyes and stretch your body.

2. Hydration and Nutrition: Maintain adequate hydration and regular meals to prevent dizziness and nausea.

3. Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity to strengthen your back and core muscles, which can help prevent pain.

4. Consult a Doctor: If your symptoms persist, consider seeing a primary care physician or a specialist in physical medicine and rehabilitation. They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options.

5. Sleep Hygiene: Focus on improving your sleep quality. Consider your mattress and pillow, and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to your work environment and lifestyle, it’s essential to monitor them closely and seek medical advice if they persist or worsen. Taking proactive steps to improve your ergonomics, hydration, and overall health can significantly impact your well-being.

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