Dizziness: Causes, Emotional Triggers, and Treatment Options

Unexplained dizziness?

Hello.
My grandmother is 80 years old and has had high blood pressure and heart disease since her fifties.
Occasionally, she experiences dizziness for a few days, which resolves on its own.
When she feels dizzy, her blood pressure readings are neither too high nor too low.
Last year, she consulted a neurologist and underwent examinations, but the doctor could not determine the cause and prescribed medication instead.
After taking the medication, her dizziness subsided.
Last weekend, while watching a movie at home, she suddenly felt very dizzy again.
She mentioned that the scenes and dialogues in the movie were exactly like those from her hometown, which deeply resonated with her.
Since then, she has been dizzy for about four to five days.
Aside from the dizziness, she is able to eat and sleep well, and she has no other physical discomfort.
I would like to ask the doctor a few questions: Can emotional changes cause dizziness? If the medication can alleviate the dizziness, should she regularly visit the neurology clinic for prescriptions? In this situation, should she take the medication daily, or only when she feels dizzy? Thank you very much for your response!

antino, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/03/23

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

Emotional anxiety, tension, or depression can actually be one of the causes of dizziness.
However, it is essential to rule out other organic causes before making this diagnosis.
If medication is prescribed solely to suppress dizziness, such as anti-vertigo drugs, it is advisable to take them only when experiencing dizziness.
While this may improve quality of life, it could potentially mask important underlying issues that require treatment.
If the prescribed medication is therapeutic, such as those targeting the inner ear or cerebral circulation, regular follow-up appointments for monitoring and medication adherence are recommended.

Reply Date: 2011/03/23

More Info

Dizziness, particularly in elderly patients like your grandmother, can be a complex issue influenced by various factors, including emotional triggers, underlying medical conditions, and medication side effects. Given your grandmother's history of hypertension and heart disease, it's essential to consider how these conditions might contribute to her dizziness.

1. Emotional Triggers and Dizziness: Yes, emotional changes can indeed trigger episodes of dizziness. In your grandmother's case, it seems that watching a movie that evokes strong memories and emotions led to her experiencing dizziness. This phenomenon can be attributed to a heightened state of anxiety or emotional stress, which can affect the vestibular system (the part of the inner ear and brain that helps control balance). When individuals experience strong emotions, their body can react in various ways, including changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which may lead to dizziness.

2. Medication and Dizziness Management: If your grandmother's dizziness improves with medication, it suggests that the underlying cause may be related to a condition that the medication is addressing, such as anxiety or a vestibular disorder. However, it is crucial to consult with her healthcare provider about the appropriate use of these medications. Regular follow-up appointments with a neurologist or her primary care physician are advisable to monitor her condition and adjust her treatment plan as necessary.
3. Daily Medication vs. As Needed: Whether your grandmother should take medication daily or only when experiencing dizziness depends on the specific medication prescribed and her overall health status. Some medications may be intended for daily use to manage chronic conditions, while others might be prescribed for acute episodes. It is essential to follow the prescribing physician's guidance on this matter.

4. Regular Monitoring: Given her age and medical history, regular check-ups are vital. These visits can help ensure that any changes in her condition are promptly addressed. If her dizziness persists or worsens, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other potential causes, such as inner ear disorders, medication side effects, or cardiovascular issues.

5. Lifestyle Considerations: Encouraging your grandmother to maintain a healthy lifestyle can also help manage her symptoms. This includes staying hydrated, avoiding sudden changes in position (which can exacerbate dizziness), and engaging in light physical activity as tolerated. Additionally, cognitive behavioral strategies or relaxation techniques may help her manage emotional triggers that lead to dizziness.

In summary, while emotional changes can indeed trigger dizziness, it is essential to approach this issue holistically, considering both her physical health and emotional well-being. Regular follow-ups with her healthcare provider will help ensure that her treatment plan is effective and that any necessary adjustments are made. If her symptoms persist or if new symptoms arise, further investigation may be warranted to ensure her safety and health.

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