Dizziness and Headaches: Possible Neurological Conditions

Dizziness, headache?

Hello Dr.
Jiang, I often experience a feeling of pressure at the back of my head, sudden dizziness, blurred vision, headaches, and increased sleepiness.
These symptoms have been ongoing for almost two months.
Could you please tell me what diseases these symptoms might indicate? Thank you.

Jin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/01

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, the first consideration should be the symptoms of migraine, which typically include visual disturbances.
These may manifest as scintillating scotomas or flashes of light, as well as blurred or distorted vision as an aura.
A few minutes after the aura appears, you may experience tingling, weakness, or numbness in the face, hands, or legs.
During the attack, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, photophobia, phonophobia, and pallor may accompany the headache.
Once the aura subsides, you may experience severe unilateral throbbing pain in the head.
These symptoms usually last for more than 3-4 hours and can persist for up to 2-3 days.
For patients with basilar-type migraine, temporary neurological symptoms may occur, including tinnitus, numbness in the limbs, and unsteady gait.
It is recommended that you consult a neurologist for evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and peace.

Reply Date: 2015/10/01

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding dizziness, headaches, and other associated symptoms. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a combination of neurological symptoms that could be indicative of several underlying conditions.
Firstly, the sensation of pressure in the back of the head, along with dizziness and blurred vision, can be associated with various types of headaches, such as tension-type headaches or migraines. Tension-type headaches are often characterized by a feeling of tightness or pressure, which can occur in the neck and back of the head. They can also be triggered by stress, anxiety, or poor posture, especially if you spend long hours in front of a computer or in a position that strains your neck.

Migraines, on the other hand, can present with a variety of symptoms, including severe headaches, visual disturbances (like blurred vision), and even dizziness. Migraines can also lead to increased sensitivity to light and sound, and they may be accompanied by nausea. The fact that you are experiencing these symptoms frequently and that they have persisted for nearly two months warrants further investigation.

Another possibility to consider is the presence of a neurological condition such as vestibular migraine or even a more serious issue like increased intracranial pressure. Increased intracranial pressure can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and visual disturbances. This condition can be caused by various factors, including head trauma, tumors, or other structural abnormalities in the brain.

Additionally, your symptoms of excessive sleepiness could be related to several factors, including sleep disorders, medication side effects, or even neurological conditions such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea. It's important to evaluate your sleep patterns and any potential contributing factors.

Given the complexity of your symptoms and their duration, it is crucial to seek a thorough evaluation from a neurologist. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to rule out any structural abnormalities in the brain. Blood tests may also be necessary to check for underlying conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms, such as thyroid dysfunction or anemia.

In the meantime, it may be helpful to keep a symptom diary, noting when your symptoms occur, their duration, and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in making an accurate diagnosis.

In summary, your symptoms of pressure in the back of the head, dizziness, blurred vision, headaches, and excessive sleepiness could be related to several neurological conditions, including tension-type headaches, migraines, or increased intracranial pressure. A comprehensive evaluation by a neurologist is essential to determine the underlying cause and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Please do not hesitate to seek medical attention, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes. Wishing you good health and relief from your symptoms!

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