[40F] Experiencing severe dizziness and associated symptoms since 2018

Patient Description

A 40-year-old female has been experiencing severe dizziness described as a '10' on the severity scale, particularly when standing up from a seated position. These episodes have been occurring since 2018. Accompanying symptoms include shaky arms and legs, headaches, and bladder issues. The shakiness is described as arms and legs feeling like 'jello.' There are no specific activities or times of day that exacerbate the dizziness, nor are there any known alleviating factors. The patient has not indicated any patterns or triggers related to the lightheadedness.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when you stand up from a sitting or lying position, leading to dizziness and possibly fainting. The shaky feeling in your arms and legs could be a result of this as your body tries to compensate for the drop in blood pressure.

    • Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes such as standing up slowly, increasing fluid and salt intake, and sometimes medication.

  • Neurological conditions: Conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson's disease can cause dizziness, shaky limbs, and bladder issues. These conditions are usually diagnosed with a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging studies.

    • Treatment usually involves managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease with medication and physical therapy.

  • Migraines: Some people experience an "aura" before a migraine attack, which can include visual disturbances, dizziness, and even weakness or numbness in the limbs. The headache you described could be a migraine.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to stop the migraine when it occurs and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.

What you can do

  1. Make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms. They may want to perform some tests or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation.
  2. Try to stand up slowly from a seated or lying position. This can help prevent sudden drops in blood pressure that might be causing your dizziness.
  3. Stay well-hydrated and try to maintain a balanced diet. This can help manage your symptoms and overall health.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms suddenly worsen or you experience new symptoms
  • You have severe headache or neck stiffness
  • You have difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • You have a high fever or severe abdominal pain
  • You have a seizure or lose consciousness

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What is orthostatic hypotension and how is it treated?

Orthostatic hypotension is a condition where there is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up from a sitting or lying position, leading to dizziness and possibly fainting. Treatment typically involves lifestyle changes such as standing up slowly, increasing fluid and salt intake, and sometimes medication.

Could neurological conditions like Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson's disease cause dizziness and shaky limbs?

Yes, neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson's disease can cause symptoms like dizziness, shaky limbs, and bladder issues. These conditions are usually diagnosed with clinical evaluation and imaging studies, and treatment involves managing symptoms and slowing disease progression with medication and physical therapy.

How are migraines related to dizziness and what are the treatment options?

Migraines can cause dizziness as part of an 'aura' that some people experience before a migraine attack. Treatment typically involves medication to stop the migraine when it occurs and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.

What lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms of dizziness and shaky limbs?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage symptoms of dizziness and shaky limbs include standing up slowly to prevent sudden drops in blood pressure, staying well-hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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