[18F] Experiencing persistent dizziness and nausea

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female reports experiencing a spinning sensation of dizziness since yesterday, which she rates as a 6 out of 10 in severity. The dizziness worsens with walking and lasts for about 2-4 hours at a time, but is alleviated by laying down. She also reports constant nausea and episodes of vomiting. She has a history of asthma since childhood and is currently taking daily birth control, although she cannot recall the specific name. She used marijuana a few days ago. There is no recent history of ear infections, hearing loss, tinnitus, fever, chills, or significant changes in vision. She has experienced a minor headache today, which she attributes to not eating much due to nausea. No recent travel or changes in medications have been noted.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations:

  1. Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: These conditions involve inflammation of the inner ear, often following an ear infection, and can cause sudden, severe dizziness (vertigo) and nausea. The spinning sensation you experience, especially when walking, aligns with this. Treatment typically involves medications to reduce dizziness and nausea, and sometimes steroids to reduce inflammation.

  2. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is a common cause of vertigo, characterized by brief episodes of dizziness triggered by changes in head position. While your dizziness lasts longer, BPPV is still a possibility. Treatment often involves specific head movements performed by a healthcare provider to reposition particles in the inner ear.

  3. Migraine-Associated Vertigo: Even without a severe headache, migraines can cause vertigo and nausea. This might be considered if you have a history of migraines. Treatment involves managing migraine triggers and medications to prevent or reduce symptoms.

  4. Side Effects from Birth Control: Although less common, hormonal changes from starting a new birth control can sometimes cause dizziness and nausea. If this is the case, symptoms might improve as your body adjusts.

What you can do

  1. Rest and Hydration: Try to rest in a comfortable position, preferably lying down, when you feel dizzy. Stay hydrated, as dehydration can worsen dizziness and nausea.

  2. Avoid Triggers: Minimize movements that trigger dizziness, such as sudden head movements or walking without support.

  3. Dietary Adjustments: Eat small, frequent meals to help manage nausea. Ginger tea or ginger candies can also help alleviate nausea.

  4. Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

  5. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It's important to see a doctor to get a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. They may recommend tests or refer you to a specialist if needed.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe or worsening symptoms
  • New symptoms such as hearing loss, severe headache, or vision changes
  • Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
  • Persistent vomiting leading to dehydration

Remember, while this information can help guide you, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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27 d ago

People Also Ask

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

Common causes of dizziness and nausea in young adults include vestibular disorders like vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), migraine-associated vertigo, dehydration, and sometimes side effects from medications such as birth control pills.

How can vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis be treated?

Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis is typically treated with medications to reduce dizziness and nausea, such as antihistamines or antiemetics. In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Vestibular rehabilitation exercises may also be recommended.

Can birth control pills cause dizziness and nausea?

Yes, hormonal changes from birth control pills can sometimes cause dizziness and nausea, especially when starting a new type. These symptoms often improve as the body adjusts to the hormones.

What should I do if my dizziness and nausea symptoms worsen?

If your symptoms worsen, you should seek medical attention, especially if you experience severe or persistent symptoms, new symptoms like hearing loss or vision changes, or if you have difficulty walking or maintaining balance. Persistent vomiting leading to dehydration also warrants medical evaluation.

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