Dizziness and Facial Flushing: Heart and Vascular Concerns

Facial flushing and dizziness?

Hello, doctor.
When the weather is hot, like in the summer, I feel very dizzy when I go outside.
My head feels heavy and swollen, and sometimes I even feel dizzy when I turn my head.
I'm afraid I might faint.
It feels more comfortable when I support my head with my hand.
When I exert myself while using the restroom, I also feel dizzy.
I need to sit for a while to recover.
During exercise, when I run about 200 meters, my face becomes flushed and very red, and it feels very hot.
I feel dizzy and nauseous, and it takes over an hour for the redness to subside.
However, my hands turn pale.
Sometimes, I feel a heavy sensation in the area between my eyebrows and on the bridge of my nose, and I feel dizzy.
I never used to feel this way before, and I'm not sure what's going on.
Thank you, doctor.
^^

Xiao Ru, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/08/10

Dr. He Dongjin reply Cardiology

Hello, based on your description, it seems that the symptoms may be caused by heat exposure leading to autonomic nervous system dysregulation.
It is advisable for you to visit a nearby clinic for an examination.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2012/08/10

More Info

Dizziness and facial flushing, especially in hot weather, can be concerning symptoms that may indicate underlying cardiovascular issues. Your description of feeling heavy-headed, experiencing dizziness when turning your head, and flushing of the face during physical exertion suggests that your body may be reacting to changes in blood flow or blood pressure regulation. Let's break down these symptoms and their potential implications.

Possible Causes
1. Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition occurs when your blood pressure drops significantly upon standing or changing positions, leading to dizziness. It can be exacerbated by dehydration, prolonged sitting, or standing, and can cause symptoms like lightheadedness or fainting.

2. Vasodilation: In hot weather, blood vessels dilate to help cool the body, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure and result in dizziness. The flushing of your face is a common response to increased blood flow to the skin.

3. Dehydration: Hot weather can lead to dehydration, which reduces blood volume and can cause dizziness and flushing. It's essential to stay hydrated, especially during physical activities or in hot environments.

4. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Sometimes, feelings of dizziness and flushing can be linked to anxiety or panic attacks. The body's fight-or-flight response can cause increased heart rate, flushing, and dizziness.

5. Cardiovascular Issues: While less common, underlying heart conditions can lead to symptoms like dizziness and flushing, especially during exertion. Conditions such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) or structural heart problems can affect how blood flows and how well the heart pumps.

Recommendations
1. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you drink plenty of fluids, especially water, during hot weather or when exercising. Electrolyte drinks can also be beneficial if you are sweating heavily.

2. Monitor Blood Pressure: If possible, keep track of your blood pressure at different times of the day, especially when you experience symptoms. This can help identify patterns or triggers.

3. Avoid Sudden Movements: When getting up from a sitting or lying position, do so slowly to give your body time to adjust and prevent dizziness.

4. Limit Physical Exertion in Heat: If you notice that your symptoms worsen with exercise or in hot weather, consider modifying your activities. Try to exercise in cooler parts of the day or indoors.

5. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Given your symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend tests such as a blood pressure assessment, an electrocardiogram (ECG), or a cardiac ultrasound to evaluate your heart's function and rule out any significant issues.

6. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporate regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques into your routine. These can help improve overall cardiovascular health and may alleviate some symptoms.

Conclusion
Your symptoms of dizziness and facial flushing can stem from various causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. It's essential to pay attention to your body and seek medical advice if these symptoms persist or worsen. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate management strategies. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, especially when it comes to heart and vascular health.

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