Dizziness and Nausea: Possible Causes and Solutions

Dizziness, vision becoming dark, and cold sweats..?

Hello doctor, about a month ago on the first day of my menstrual period, I experienced sudden dizziness, blurred vision, and nausea.
I initially thought it was related to my period, but this morning at work, I had the same symptoms again.
Sitting down and resting helps a bit, but when I stand up, my face starts to feel tingly and I begin to experience symptoms of anemia.
This time, I am not on my period (though it is approaching), and I have been getting enough sleep and had breakfast.
I'm unsure if this is related to my menstrual cycle or if there might be another underlying condition.
I have experienced similar symptoms in the past, but it has been nearly a year since the last occurrence.

Tuzi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/21

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology

It is important to check if blood pressure is too low or if there are signs of anemia.
Based on these issues, we can investigate the causes of low blood pressure or low hemoglobin levels.
Of course, fluctuations can occur around the menstrual cycle, and if the bleeding is excessive, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.

Regarding another condition, benign positional vertigo can be triggered by changes in position, resulting in brief episodes of dizziness lasting a few seconds, sometimes accompanied by visual disturbances or nausea.
However, if the individual remains still, they will typically recover.
Yet, any movement or change in head position may provoke the dizziness again.
If the symptoms align with this description, it would be appropriate to seek assistance from an otolaryngologist or a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2015/08/21

More Info

Dizziness and nausea can be distressing symptoms, and understanding their possible causes is crucial for effective management. Based on your description, it seems that you experienced these symptoms during your menstrual period and again at work, which raises several considerations.

Firstly, it's important to note that dizziness and nausea can be linked to hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle. Many women experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which can manifest as physical symptoms, including dizziness and nausea, due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes can also lead to changes in blood pressure and blood volume, which might explain the feelings of lightheadedness and faintness you experienced.

Another potential cause of your symptoms could be related to blood sugar levels. Although you mentioned having breakfast, if it was not balanced or if you have a tendency to skip meals, your blood sugar could drop, leading to dizziness and nausea. It's important to maintain a balanced diet with adequate carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to stabilize blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Dehydration is another common cause of dizziness. If you haven't been drinking enough fluids, especially during your menstrual cycle when fluid retention and loss can fluctuate, this could contribute to your symptoms. Ensuring adequate hydration can help alleviate dizziness and improve overall well-being.

Additionally, the symptoms you described, such as facial tingling and feelings of faintness, could indicate a drop in blood pressure, particularly when standing up quickly, a condition known as orthostatic hypotension. This can occur due to dehydration, prolonged sitting, or even certain medications. If you notice that your symptoms worsen upon standing, it would be wise to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Stress and anxiety can also play a significant role in causing dizziness and nausea. If you have been experiencing increased stress at work or in your personal life, this could contribute to your symptoms. Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and relaxation exercises can be beneficial in managing stress-related symptoms.

Given that you have experienced these symptoms before, it may be worthwhile to keep a symptom diary. Documenting when the symptoms occur, their duration, and any associated factors (such as food intake, hydration, and stress levels) can provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.

If these symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience additional concerning symptoms such as severe headache, vision changes, or persistent nausea, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include blood tests, blood pressure monitoring, and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any underlying conditions.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to hormonal changes associated with your menstrual cycle, other factors such as hydration, blood sugar levels, and stress should also be considered. Keeping track of your symptoms and discussing them with a healthcare provider will help in determining the appropriate course of action. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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