Sudden Dizziness, Shortness of Breath, and High Blood Pressure: What to Do?

Suddenly feeling faint, experiencing shortness of breath, high blood pressure, and nausea?

Hello, this afternoon while I was cleaning at home, I suddenly felt like I was going to fall backward and then I started to have difficulty breathing.
After that, I felt a bit nauseous.
I went to the hospital, and the doctor said I had high blood pressure, but the blood tests came back normal.
For the past three to four days, I've felt uncomfortable whenever I get in a car, almost like I'm about to get motion sickness.
Just now, after returning home, I feel somewhat better, but I still can't move my head too much.
I would like to know what possible issues this could indicate and which department I should visit for a detailed examination?

Rinna, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/15

Dr. Lan Shengxing reply Neurology

Dear Rinna, these symptoms are difficult to categorize into a specific disease.
Please visit the neurology outpatient clinic for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/02/15

More Info

Experiencing sudden dizziness, shortness of breath, and high blood pressure can be concerning and may indicate a variety of underlying issues. It’s important to approach this situation with caution and seek appropriate medical advice.

Possible Causes
1. Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition occurs when a person stands up quickly, causing a drop in blood pressure that can lead to dizziness and fainting. If you’ve been sitting or lying down for a while and then suddenly stood up, this could be a potential cause.

2. Anxiety or Panic Attacks: Sudden feelings of dizziness and shortness of breath can also be symptoms of anxiety or panic attacks. These episodes can occur without any apparent trigger and may be accompanied by a racing heart, sweating, or feelings of impending doom.

3. Vestibular Disorders: Conditions affecting the inner ear, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or vestibular neuritis, can cause dizziness and balance issues. These conditions may also lead to feelings of nausea.

4. Cardiovascular Issues: High blood pressure can sometimes lead to symptoms like dizziness and shortness of breath, especially if the heart is struggling to pump effectively. Conditions such as heart failure or arrhythmias could be contributing factors.

5. Dehydration or Electrolyte Imbalance: If you haven’t been drinking enough fluids or if your diet lacks essential electrolytes, this could lead to dizziness and feelings of weakness.

6. Medication Side Effects: If you are taking any medications, especially those for blood pressure or anxiety, side effects could include dizziness and nausea.

Recommended Actions
1. Seek Medical Attention: Given your symptoms, it’s advisable to follow up with a healthcare provider. You may want to see a cardiologist to rule out any heart-related issues, especially since you mentioned high blood pressure.

2. Monitor Blood Pressure: Keep track of your blood pressure readings at home. If you notice consistently high readings, this information will be valuable for your doctor.

3. Consider a Neurological Evaluation: If dizziness persists, a neurologist may be able to assess for any underlying neurological conditions that could be causing your symptoms.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Ensure you are staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress. Regular physical activity can also help improve cardiovascular health and reduce anxiety.

5. Avoid Sudden Movements: Until you have a clearer understanding of your symptoms, try to avoid sudden movements that could exacerbate dizziness.

6. Keep a Symptom Diary: Document when your symptoms occur, their duration, and any potential triggers. This information can help your healthcare provider make a more accurate diagnosis.

Conclusion
While your symptoms can stem from various causes, it’s crucial to take them seriously, especially if they are persistent or worsening. A thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress to help alleviate some of your symptoms.

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