[50F] Experiencing dizziness and brain fog

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when you stand up from a sitting or lying position. This can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, especially upon standing. It can be more common in people with certain health conditions, medications, or age.

  • Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications such as standing up slowly, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol.

• Anxiety Disorders: Chronic anxiety can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including dizziness and lightheadedness. The brain fog you're experiencing could also be related to your anxiety.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication (which you're already on) and psychotherapy.

• Hypothyroidism: Although you're being treated for this condition, if your thyroid hormone levels are not well-controlled, it could potentially contribute to your symptoms.

  • Treatment involves taking thyroid hormone replacement (which you're already doing). It may be worth checking with your doctor to ensure your dose is still appropriate.

• Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), also known as Long COVID: Some people who have recovered from COVID-19 continue to experience symptoms or develop new ones, like the loss of smell you mentioned. Brain fog is also a commonly reported symptom.

  • Treatment is largely supportive and symptom-based as researchers are still trying to understand this condition.

What you can do

While waiting for your appointment with your doctor, here are some things you can do:

1. Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position. This can help prevent a sudden drop in blood pressure that might be causing your dizziness.
2. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol, as these can also affect your blood pressure.
3. Continue taking your medications as prescribed.
4. Try to identify any triggers for your anxiety and practice stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.
5. Keep a symptom diary to track when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they happen, and anything that makes them better or worse. This can be helpful information for your doctor.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you:

• Experience a sudden severe headache, difficulty speaking, weakness on one side of your body, or other signs of a stroke
• Have chest pain or trouble breathing
• Faint or lose consciousness
• Notice that your symptoms are getting significantly worse or are interfering with your daily activities

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and condition in person.