Suggest Treatment For Persistent Dizziness And Nausea In An Elderly Person

Posted on Fri, 22 Jan 2016

Question: I am a 67 year old female. Lately I have been experiencing an almost violent episode of dizziness when rising from a sitting or sleeping position. It nauseates me and is quite intense from 30 -40 seconds. Afterward, I am normal, but the constant repeat of this event leads me to believe there is a more serious underlying problem.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (51 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Postural hypotension.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your query and understand your concerns.

Your concerns are caused probably by a condition known as postural ( or orthostatic ) hypotension, in other words lowering of blood pressure after changing body position from laying or sitting to standing.

Possible causes include dehydration, certain heart conditions such heart valves incompetency, bradycardia (or slow heart rhythm), hypothyroidism, low blood sugar, etc.

There is need to consult your primary care Doctor and to discuss about further tests such blood tests to assess thyroid function, glucose etc. cardiac work up as well, in order to find the cause of your concerns.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj