[57F] Experiencing severe dizziness and associated symptoms

Patient Description

A 57-year-old female presents with a nearly year-long history of sudden onset, severe dizziness described as both spinning and lightheadedness, which renders her unable to walk. These episodes occur every couple of weeks, typically in the morning about an hour after rising, and can last for hours or days. Accompanying symptoms include severe light sensitivity, projectile and uncontrollable vomiting, and diarrhea characterized as soft and semi-solid. The patient has not identified any specific triggers or alleviating factors for these symptoms, and they have not been linked to food intake. The patient reports that the light sensitivity and vomiting began concurrently with the dizziness.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Migraine: Migraines are a type of headache characterized by severe, throbbing pain, often on one side of the head. They can be accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting. Some people may also experience dizziness or balance problems.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks. Lifestyle changes, such as stress management and regular sleep, can also help.
  • Vertigo: This is a sensation of feeling off balance and experiencing a dizzy spell that feels like spinning. It can be caused by issues in the brain or inner ear.

    • Treatment depends on the cause and can include medications, physical therapy maneuvers, or surgery in severe cases.
  • Meniere's disease: This is an inner ear disorder that can cause severe dizziness (vertigo), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness or congestion in the ear.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery.

Please note that these are possibilities based on the information provided and are not definitive diagnoses.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention. Here are some steps you can take:

  1. Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician: They can conduct a thorough examination and possibly refer you to a specialist, such as a neurologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.
  2. Keep a symptom diary: Note when your symptoms occur, what you're doing when they happen, and how long they last. This can help your doctor identify patterns and potential triggers.
  3. Stay hydrated: Both vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can worsen dehydration.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms become more severe or frequent
  • You experience new symptoms, such as fainting, seizures, or difficulty speaking or moving
  • You have a high fever or severe headache
  • You are unable to keep down fluids due to persistent vomiting

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

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

11 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of migraines and how are they treated?

Migraines often present with severe, throbbing headaches, usually on one side of the head, and can include symptoms like sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment may involve medications to relieve symptoms and prevent future attacks, as well as lifestyle changes such as stress management and maintaining a regular sleep schedule.


How can vertigo be distinguished from other types of dizziness?

Vertigo is specifically characterized by a sensation of spinning or feeling off balance, often caused by issues in the inner ear or brain. It differs from other types of dizziness, which may not involve a spinning sensation. Diagnosis and treatment depend on the underlying cause and can include medications, physical therapy, or surgery.


What is Meniere's disease and what are its typical symptoms?

Meniere's disease is an inner ear disorder that can cause episodes of severe dizziness (vertigo), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Treatment typically involves medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery to manage symptoms.


What steps should be taken if dizziness is accompanied by severe vomiting and light sensitivity?

If dizziness is accompanied by severe vomiting and light sensitivity, it is important to seek medical attention. Keeping a symptom diary, staying hydrated, and consulting with a healthcare professional for a thorough examination and possible referral to a specialist are recommended steps.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback