Morning Dizziness: Causes and Symptoms After Illness

Experiencing dizziness upon waking up in the morning?

I have experienced symptoms of dizziness since childhood, but it would only occur once every six months to a year.
Recently, I had a more severe cold, during which I also experienced mild dizziness.
However, after recovering from the cold, I noticed that the dizziness began to occur more frequently, about every two to three days, particularly in the morning upon waking, and it gradually subsides by two or three in the afternoon.
Sometimes, my heart rate increases, especially if I stayed up past midnight the previous night, which seems to significantly increase the likelihood of an episode.
Previously, the dizziness was not this severe, and I would like to know what might be the underlying issue.
Additionally, my dizziness is characterized by a sensation where, when I turn my head, my eyes seem unable to focus, and even when my head stops moving, the objects in front of me continue to sway, accompanied by a feeling of pressure in my head.

Ms. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/14

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello, based on your description, Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) should be considered first.
The symptoms are characterized by brief episodes of dizziness related to changes in head position, such as bending over, tilting back, lying down, getting up, rolling over, or suddenly turning the head.
These episodes may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, palpitations, cold sweats, and feelings of weakness.
The exact cause is often unknown, but it can be related to inflammation, degeneration, or head trauma that leads to the displacement of otoliths from the utricle into the semicircular canals.
When the head position changes, the movement of these otoliths within the semicircular canals alters the neural potential in the inner ear, resulting in vertigo.
Patients with BPPV are more commonly female.
Treatment options include the Epley maneuver, which utilizes changes in body and head position along with gravity to reposition the displaced otoliths back into the vestibule of the inner ear.
It is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist for further evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health and well-being.

Reply Date: 2016/02/14

More Info

Morning dizziness can be a concerning symptom, especially when it becomes more frequent or intense after an illness. In your case, the dizziness you are experiencing upon waking, which seems to be exacerbated by late nights, could be linked to several underlying factors.

Firstly, it's important to consider the possibility of vestibular dysfunction. The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, is responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. After a significant illness, such as a severe cold or flu, it is not uncommon for the vestibular system to become temporarily disrupted. This can lead to symptoms like dizziness, especially when changing positions or moving the head. The sensation of your eyes not being able to focus and the world seeming to sway could indicate a vestibular issue, possibly benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is characterized by brief episodes of dizziness related to changes in head position.

Another potential cause could be related to post-viral syndrome, where symptoms persist long after the initial infection has resolved. This can include fatigue, dizziness, and other neurological symptoms. The fact that your dizziness occurs more frequently after late nights suggests that sleep deprivation may also play a role. Lack of sleep can exacerbate feelings of dizziness and disorientation, as well as affect your overall cognitive function and balance.

Additionally, your symptoms of increased heart rate during these episodes could indicate a form of autonomic dysregulation. The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate and blood pressure. If your body is under stress or not recovering well from your recent illness, it may react by increasing heart rate, which can accompany dizziness.

It's also worth considering other factors such as dehydration, low blood pressure, or even anxiety, which can manifest as dizziness and palpitations. If you are not drinking enough fluids, especially after being ill, dehydration can lead to dizziness. Similarly, if you have been feeling anxious about your health, this can also contribute to physical symptoms, including dizziness and increased heart rate.

Given the frequency and nature of your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination, blood tests to check for dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, and possibly imaging studies or vestibular testing to assess the function of your inner ear.
In the meantime, consider maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding sudden movements that could trigger dizziness. If you notice any additional concerning symptoms, such as severe headaches, visual disturbances, or persistent heart palpitations, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while morning dizziness can stem from various causes, including vestibular dysfunction, post-viral syndrome, sleep deprivation, and autonomic dysregulation, a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate management.

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