Post-Exercise Dizziness: Vision Changes and Blood Pressure Fluctuations - Family Medicine

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Post-exercise dizziness, vision changes, and fluctuations in blood pressure can be concerning symptoms, especially for someone with a history of significant refractive error like yourself. Let's break down your questions and concerns systematically.

1. Vision Changes and Seeking Further Help: You mentioned experiencing a decline in vision despite having been told by an eye care professional that your eyes are healthy. Given your high refractive error (approximately -1200 degrees), it is crucial to consider other potential causes for your vision changes. If your eye examination did not reveal any structural issues, it may be beneficial to consult with a neurologist or an ophthalmologist specializing in neuro-ophthalmology. These specialists can evaluate for conditions that might affect the optic nerve or brain pathways related to vision, such as migraines, transient ischemic attacks, or even stress-related visual disturbances.

2. Post-Exercise Dizziness and Visual Changes: Feeling dizzy and experiencing darkening of your vision after cycling could be attributed to several factors. One common cause is postural hypotension, where blood pressure drops significantly upon standing or after exercise, leading to dizziness. This can be exacerbated by dehydration or inadequate blood flow to the brain during intense physical activity. Given that you mentioned this is a new occurrence, it warrants attention. It would be wise to monitor your symptoms closely. If they persist or worsen, consider consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation, which may include checking your blood pressure before and after exercise, assessing hydration status, and possibly conducting a cardiac evaluation.

3. Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Blood pressure naturally fluctuates throughout the day and can be influenced by various factors, including physical activity, stress, and hydration levels. The systolic range you provided (113-133 mmHg) is generally considered normal, but the variability may indicate that your body is responding to exercise or other stressors. It is essential to measure your blood pressure at consistent times, ideally when you are relaxed, to get a more accurate picture of your baseline levels. If you notice persistent high readings or significant fluctuations, it may be beneficial to consult with a primary care physician or a cardiologist to rule out any underlying conditions.

In summary, your symptoms of dizziness and vision changes post-exercise, along with blood pressure fluctuations, should not be ignored. It is advisable to seek further evaluation from specialists who can provide a comprehensive assessment. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, and managing stress are also crucial in mitigating these symptoms. If you experience any alarming symptoms, such as severe headaches, persistent dizziness, or changes in vision, seek immediate medical attention.