[55F] Experiencing persistent dizziness and nausea

Patient Description

A 55-year-old female has been experiencing a moderate plus spinning sensation of dizziness and nausea since waking up today. The dizziness worsens when sitting up and does not subside. The patient also reports associated headaches, ear fullness or pressure, and visual disturbances such as double vision or blurred vision. There is no history of recent head injuries, infections, hearing loss, or ringing in the ears. The patient has not experienced similar dizziness before and has no history of migraines or ear surgeries. She has not consumed alcohol or recreational drugs recently, made significant dietary changes, or traveled to different climates or altitudes. The patient has not started any new medications recently and has no known drug allergies. Her medical history includes kidney issues diagnosed 5-6 years ago, but she is not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is a common cause of dizziness that feels like a spinning sensation (vertigo). It is often triggered by changes in head position, such as sitting up or lying down. BPPV occurs when tiny calcium crystals in your inner ear become dislodged and move into the ear canal, disrupting your balance.

    • Treatment: BPPV can often be treated with specific head and body movements known as the Epley maneuver, which a healthcare provider can guide you through.

  • Vestibular Neuritis: This is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve in your inner ear, which can cause sudden, severe vertigo, nausea, and imbalance. It is often caused by a viral infection.

    • Treatment: Vestibular neuritis may improve on its own over time, but medications to reduce dizziness and nausea, as well as vestibular rehabilitation exercises, can be helpful.

  • Meniere's Disease: This is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and a feeling of fullness in the ear. The exact cause is unknown, but it may be related to fluid buildup in the inner ear.

    • Treatment: Treatment options include medications to reduce vertigo and nausea, dietary changes (such as reducing salt intake), and in some cases, surgery.

  • Migraine-Associated Vertigo: Some people with migraines experience vertigo as a symptom. This can be accompanied by headaches, visual disturbances, and sensitivity to light and sound.

    • Treatment: Managing migraines with medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce vertigo symptoms.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to help manage your symptoms:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as dehydration can worsen dizziness.
  2. Avoid Sudden Movements: Move slowly and avoid sudden changes in position, such as standing up quickly.
  3. Rest: Try to rest in a comfortable position and avoid activities that could make your dizziness worse.
  4. Limit Salt and Caffeine: Reducing your intake of salt and caffeine may help if your symptoms are related to Meniere's disease.
  5. Use MDandMe: Use the MDandMe app to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your medical notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention more urgently if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe or Worsening Symptoms: If your dizziness or nausea becomes severe or worsens over time.
  • New Symptoms: If you develop new symptoms such as weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or severe headache.
  • Inability to Function: If your dizziness is so severe that you are unable to perform daily activities or care for yourself.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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4 mo ago

People Also Ask

What is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) and how is it treated?

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) is a common cause of dizziness characterized by a spinning sensation, often triggered by changes in head position. It occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged. Treatment typically involves specific head and body movements known as the Epley maneuver, which a healthcare provider can guide you through.

What are the symptoms and treatment options for Vestibular Neuritis?

Vestibular Neuritis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve in the inner ear, causing sudden, severe vertigo, nausea, and imbalance. It is often due to a viral infection. Treatment may include medications to reduce dizziness and nausea, and vestibular rehabilitation exercises. The condition may improve on its own over time.

How can Meniere's Disease affect a person and what are the treatment options?

Meniere's Disease is a disorder of the inner ear that can cause episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Treatment options include medications to reduce vertigo and nausea, dietary changes like reducing salt intake, and in some cases, surgery.

Can migraines cause vertigo and how can it be managed?

Yes, migraines can cause vertigo, known as migraine-associated vertigo. This can be accompanied by headaches, visual disturbances, and sensitivity to light and sound. Managing migraines with medications and lifestyle changes can help reduce vertigo symptoms.

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