[18F] Experiencing dizziness and nausea

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female has been experiencing dizziness and nausea for several months. The dizziness, described as a shaking sensation, has been occurring daily for the past year and is rated at a severity of 6.5 out of 10. It worsens with spinning or shaking movements but is somewhat alleviated by motion. The patient also reports nausea without specific triggers, which comes and goes, and is rated at a severity of 4 out of 10. The patient was diagnosed with anxiety a few months ago and is currently using an unspecified medication for acne. No known allergies or other medications were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possibilities:

  • Vestibular Disorders: These are conditions that affect the inner ear and balance system. Symptoms can include dizziness, a sense of spinning, and nausea. This could be something like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is a common vestibular disorder that causes brief episodes of mild to intense dizziness.

    • Treatment for BPPV may include maneuvers performed by a doctor to help alleviate symptoms, or exercises you can do at home.
  • Anxiety Disorders: You mentioned you've been diagnosed with anxiety. Dizziness and nausea can be symptoms of anxiety, especially during periods of high stress or panic attacks.

    • Treatment for anxiety disorders often involves a combination of therapy and medication.
  • Side Effects of Medication: Some medications, including certain acne treatments, can cause dizziness and nausea as side effects.

    • If you suspect your symptoms may be due to a medication you're taking, it's important to talk to your doctor. Don't stop taking your medication without consulting a healthcare professional.

What you can do

  1. Try to identify any triggers for your dizziness and nausea. This could include certain movements, foods, or stressful situations.
  2. Practice good sleep hygiene. Lack of sleep can sometimes exacerbate symptoms of dizziness and nausea.
  3. Stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals to help manage your nausea.
  4. If your symptoms are related to anxiety, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide you with strategies to manage your anxiety, which may help alleviate your physical symptoms.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms become severe or are interfering with your daily activities.
  • You experience additional symptoms such as fainting, seizures, severe headaches, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
  • Your symptoms persist despite trying to manage them at home.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care recommendations.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are common causes of dizziness and nausea in young adults?

Common causes of dizziness and nausea in young adults include vestibular disorders, anxiety, dehydration, low blood sugar, and side effects from medications. It's important to identify the underlying cause to address the symptoms effectively.


How can anxiety contribute to symptoms like dizziness and nausea?

Anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as dizziness and nausea due to the body's stress response. During periods of high stress or panic attacks, the body releases adrenaline, which can affect balance and digestion, leading to these symptoms.


Can acne medications cause dizziness and nausea as side effects?

Yes, some acne medications, particularly those that are systemic or have strong active ingredients, can cause side effects like dizziness and nausea. It's important to review the side effects of any medication with your doctor.


What are some effective treatments for vestibular disorders like BPPV?

Effective treatments for vestibular disorders like BPPV include specific head and body movements known as canalith repositioning maneuvers, such as the Epley maneuver, which can help move the particles in the inner ear to a position where they no longer cause dizziness. Vestibular rehabilitation exercises may also be recommended.


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