[47F] Experiencing blurred vision, dizziness, and cardiovascular symptoms

Patient Description

A 47-year-old female presents with a 2-month history of blurred vision, moderate dizziness characterized by both spinning and lightheadedness, shortness of breath with a severity of 5/10, tachycardia with heart rates between 90 to 120 bpm, head pressure rated 6/10, and pulsating noise in the left ear. These symptoms are not influenced by changes in position or activity. The patient has a past medical history of melanoma and hyperlipidemia, diagnosed 7 years ago. She is currently on Atorvastatin 20mg, Protonix 40mg, and Wellbutrin XL 300mg daily. No new medications have been started or stopped recently, and there are no known allergies or use of over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal remedies. The patient also reports occasional chest discomfort and ectopic heartbeats, with a family history of cardiovascular disease. No recent injuries, exposure to loud noises, or use of substances that could affect heart rate and blood pressure have been reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Anxiety Disorders: Anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. It can also cause sensations of pressure in the head and blurred vision. However, it would not typically cause the pulsating sound in your ear.

    • Treatment typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy and/or medication.
  • Migraines: Migraines can cause blurred vision, dizziness, and a sensation of pressure in the head. Some people also report hearing a pulsating sound in their ear during a migraine attack. However, migraines would not typically cause shortness of breath or a rapid heartbeat.

    • Treatment typically involves medication to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks.
  • Cardiovascular Conditions: Conditions such as heart disease or arrhythmias can cause a rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath. They can also cause dizziness and blurred vision if they lead to decreased blood flow to the brain. However, they would not typically cause a sensation of pressure in the head or a pulsating sound in the ear.

    • Treatment typically involves medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Pulsatile Tinnitus: This is a condition where you hear a rhythmic pulsing, often in time with your heartbeat, in your ear. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, including high blood pressure, changes in blood flow, or tumors. It would not typically cause the other symptoms you've described.

    • Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to discuss your symptoms. They may refer you to a specialist, such as a cardiologist or neurologist, for further evaluation.
  2. Keep a symptom diary. Note when each symptom occurs, its severity, and any potential triggers. This can help your healthcare provider in diagnosing your condition.
  3. Continue taking your medications as prescribed.
  4. Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help manage many health conditions.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you:

  • Experience severe chest pain or pressure
  • Have difficulty breathing
  • Faint or lose consciousness
  • Have sudden, severe headache
  • Have sudden difficulty speaking or understanding speech
  • Have sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body
  • Have sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes

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 could be causing the pulsating noise in my ear?

The pulsating noise in your ear, known as pulsatile tinnitus, can be caused by high blood pressure, changes in blood flow, or other conditions affecting the blood vessels near the ear. It's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.


Can anxiety cause physical symptoms like dizziness and blurred vision?

Yes, anxiety disorders can cause a range of physical symptoms, including dizziness, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, and shortness of breath. These symptoms occur due to the body's stress response.


How can cardiovascular conditions lead to symptoms like shortness of breath and tachycardia?

Cardiovascular conditions, such as heart disease or arrhythmias, can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath and tachycardia due to decreased blood flow or irregular heart rhythms affecting oxygen delivery to the body.


What are the treatment options for migraines that cause head pressure and blurred vision?

Treatment for migraines often includes medications to relieve symptoms, such as pain relievers or triptans, and preventive medications to reduce the frequency of attacks. Lifestyle changes and identifying triggers can also help manage migraines.


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