[26F] Experiencing dizziness, pressure in forehead, and anxiety

Patient Description

A 26-year-old female reports experiencing dizziness described as lightheadedness, which worsens immediately upon standing and is rated as 7 out of 10 in severity. The dizziness started last Tuesday and is constant, not influenced by the time of day, but is exacerbated by anxiety. The patient also feels constant pressure in her sinuses, particularly across the forehead and behind the eyes, which she rates as 4 out of 10 in intensity, and this symptom also began last Tuesday. She has been experiencing tightness in her neck and shoulders for months. Additionally, the patient has a long-standing history of severe health-related anxiety, which has been impacting her daily life, including her willingness to go out and her sleep quality. She has not found relief from any specific interventions for her dizziness.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

  • Anxiety Disorder: Chronic anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including dizziness, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping. It can also exacerbate the perception of other symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications are common treatments.
  • Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition causes a sudden drop in blood pressure when you stand up from a sitting or lying down position, leading to dizziness. It can be managed by making certain lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication.
  • Sinusitis: The pressure in your forehead and behind your eyes could be due to inflammation or infection of the sinuses. Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, over-the-counter remedies, and potentially antibiotics.

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list and these conditions are merely possibilities based on the symptoms you've described. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions that might help:

  1. For your anxiety, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be very effective in treating anxiety disorders. Medication may also be an option.
  2. For your dizziness, try to stand up slowly from a sitting or lying down position. This gives your body more time to adjust to the change in blood pressure.
  3. For the pressure in your forehead, try using a warm compress or taking over-the-counter pain relievers. If these symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention as it could be a sign of a sinus infection.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe headache or headache that worsens
  • Fever
  • Sudden severe dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Thoughts of harming yourself or others

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. This advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. 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 when standing up?

Common causes of dizziness when standing up include orthostatic hypotension, dehydration, and certain medications. It occurs when there is a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to reduced blood flow to the brain.


How can anxiety contribute to physical symptoms like dizziness and muscle tension?

Anxiety can lead to physical symptoms such as dizziness and muscle tension due to the body's stress response. This response can cause hyperventilation, increased heart rate, and muscle tightness, which can exacerbate these symptoms.


What are the symptoms and treatments for sinusitis?

Symptoms of sinusitis include facial pain or pressure, nasal congestion, and headache. Treatments often involve rest, hydration, nasal decongestants, and sometimes antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present.


What lifestyle changes can help manage orthostatic hypotension?

Lifestyle changes to manage orthostatic hypotension include staying hydrated, standing up slowly, wearing compression stockings, and increasing salt intake if advised by a doctor. These measures help maintain blood pressure and reduce dizziness.


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