Dizziness and vomiting?
Hello Dr.
Hsu,
I experienced a sore throat in mid-March of this year.
Initially, I consulted an otolaryngologist, but after five days with no improvement (I saw other doctors in between), the pain intensified to the point where I could hardly eat.
During these days, the medications prescribed by the doctor were anti-inflammatory and pain relievers.
On the sixth night, I first felt fatigued, and within 30 minutes, I began to experience dizziness, followed by vomiting.
I went to the emergency room, where I received three IV bags and anti-nausea injections.
Throughout this time, I continued to feel dizzy and vomit, with the dizziness worsening when I turned my head to the right, particularly severe from 10:30 PM to 11:00 AM the next day.
My strength gradually returned.
Since the hospital I visited did not have an otolaryngology department, the emergency physician recommended that I see an otolaryngologist for further evaluation.
Two days later, I went to the Dali branch of Renai Hospital in Taichung for an ENT check-up.
The doctor arranged for blood tests and a hearing examination, and prescribed four medications: OKEN (Kentamin), ODRA (Dramamine), OSER (Serenal), and OSON (Songora), stating that I would need to take the medications for about three months for recovery.
The blood tests and hearing examination results showed no abnormalities.
Due to work commitments, I was unable to see the same doctor for treatment.
The doctor I saw yesterday indicated that my symptoms would not be caused by a sore throat and suggested it was tendonitis.
He prescribed five medications: OCCA (Cataflam), OSON (Songora), ODRA (Dramamine), OSTR (Strocaine), and OVA2 (Valium).
Now, I am confused because the two doctors have differing opinions.
Should I take the medications prescribed by the latter doctor, or should I seek another medical opinion? I have stopped taking the medications for one day, and I am starting to feel slightly nauseous again.
I hope Dr.
Hsu can help clarify my confusion.
Thank you.
Ke Xiansheng, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/11
Dr. Xu Jiazhen reply Otolaryngology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many causes of sore throat, and a thorough differential diagnosis by a clinician is necessary.
I recommend that you follow up with the same physician for continuity of care, as this will make it easier to understand your medication situation.
Reply Date: 2006/04/11
More Info
Understanding dizziness and nausea can be quite complex, especially when it involves potential ENT (ear, nose, and throat) issues. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing a series of symptoms that began with a sore throat and escalated to dizziness and nausea, which can be distressing and confusing.
Dizziness can stem from various causes, including vestibular disorders, which affect the inner ear and balance, or it can be related to other systemic issues such as dehydration, infections, or even anxiety. In your case, the initial sore throat may have been a viral or bacterial infection, which could lead to secondary effects, including inflammation that might impact the inner ear. This could explain the dizziness and nausea you experienced after the throat pain intensified.
The medications prescribed to you, such as Dramamine (an antihistamine used to prevent nausea and motion sickness) and other anti-inflammatory or pain-relief medications, are typically aimed at managing symptoms. However, the fact that you received differing opinions from two doctors can understandably lead to confusion. The second doctor’s suggestion that your dizziness is due to tendonitis (which is unusual in this context) may not directly correlate with your initial symptoms of throat pain and subsequent dizziness.
It’s essential to consider a few key points:
1. Follow-Up with an ENT Specialist: Since your symptoms began with throat pain and progressed to dizziness, it would be prudent to follow up with an ENT specialist who can conduct a thorough examination. They may perform tests such as a balance assessment or imaging studies to rule out any inner ear issues.
2. Medication Management: If you are experiencing nausea when you stop taking the medications, it may indicate that your body is reacting to the withdrawal of those medications. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. They can provide guidance on whether to continue the current medications or adjust them based on your symptoms.
3. Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you are staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet, as dehydration can exacerbate feelings of dizziness and nausea. If you are having difficulty eating due to nausea, consider small, bland meals that are easier on the stomach.
4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any triggers you notice. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the underlying cause of your dizziness and nausea.
5. Seek a Second Opinion: If you continue to feel uncertain about your diagnosis or treatment plan, seeking a second opinion from another ENT specialist or a neurologist may provide additional clarity. Different perspectives can help you understand your condition better and find the most effective treatment.
In conclusion, while dizziness and nausea can be linked to various causes, your symptoms following a sore throat warrant a thorough evaluation by an ENT specialist. It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your symptoms and concerns, and don’t hesitate to seek further opinions if you feel your condition is not being adequately addressed. Your health and comfort are paramount, and finding the right diagnosis and treatment plan is crucial for your recovery.
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