[44F] Experiencing severe dizziness

Patient Description

A 44-year-old female reports severe dizziness that causes her to walk sideways and lose balance when turning her head quickly. This symptom has been present for 1 day and is more pronounced during the night and early morning. Sitting down appears to alleviate the dizziness. The patient has a medical history of high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, diagnosed over the past 15 years. She is currently taking Busparone, Wellbutrin, and Zoloft, and has an allergy to Lidocaine. No other symptoms were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): This is a common cause of dizziness, especially when it occurs with changes in the position of your head. It happens when tiny calcium particles clump up in the inner ear canals, causing brief episodes of mild to intense dizziness.

    • Treatment usually involves a series of head movements that shift the calcium deposits out of the ear canal.
  • Meniere's disease: This is an inner ear disorder caused by a buildup of fluid and changing pressure in the ear that can cause episodes of dizziness.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery.
  • Side effects of medications: Both Adderall and Wellbutrin have been reported to cause dizziness in some people.

    • If this is the case, your doctor may adjust the dose or switch you to a different medication.

What you can do

  1. Try to avoid sudden changes in position, especially from lying down to standing up, which might make your dizziness worse.
  2. Stay hydrated and try to eat a balanced diet. Dehydration and low blood sugar can both cause dizziness.
  3. Try to reduce your stress levels as much as possible. Anxiety can sometimes cause or worsen dizziness.
  4. Consult with your doctor about your symptoms. They may want to adjust your medications or refer you to a specialist for further testing.

What you should look out for

If your dizziness is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:

  • A new, severe headache
  • A stiff neck
  • Chest pain or rapid heart rate
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness
  • Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • Sudden, severe vomiting

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. You should consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and how is it treated?

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a condition where tiny calcium particles clump up in the inner ear canals, causing dizziness with head movements. It is typically treated with a series of head movements known as the Epley maneuver to reposition the particles.


Can medications like Wellbutrin cause dizziness?

Yes, medications like Wellbutrin can cause dizziness as a side effect in some individuals. If dizziness occurs, it is important to consult with a doctor who may adjust the dosage or switch medications.


What lifestyle changes can help manage Meniere's disease?

Lifestyle changes for managing Meniere's disease include reducing salt intake, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, managing stress, and staying hydrated. These changes can help reduce fluid buildup in the inner ear.


When should I seek immediate medical attention for dizziness?

Immediate medical attention for dizziness is necessary if it is accompanied by symptoms such as a severe headache, stiff neck, chest pain, difficulty speaking, fainting, or numbness/weakness on one side of the body.


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