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What Causes Balancing Issues And Slight Disorientation?
I am 54, female, 5 3 , 145 lbs. I have had hysterectomy 2004, appendectomy 1974. I was diagnosed in 2004 with reactive thrombocytosis taking agrylide until 2005. Platelet counts have been below 350 since.I have 4 degenerative discs in the lumbar. I rarely have back pain but have some soreness. Blood pressure and cholestoral are within safe range. I take no medications currently. I woke up this morning with a balance issue...swaying, off balance, weakness, slight disorientation. Looking up amplifies this effect. My legs are very tight and sore. As the morning goes on it seems to be abating a little but not disappearing.
Wed, 17 Jun 2020
Hi,
There can be many causes of swaying, weakness, and vertigo. One of the most common causes is diseases associated with ear like labyrinthitis (infection of the ear), vestibular neuritis (inflammation of the nerves), or BPPV (benign positional vertigo). It can also be related to diseases of the brain (infection or swelling) or heart disorders (arrhythmia- rhythm disturbances).
Since you have a history of lumbar disc disease, there is always a chance of similar cervical disc disease (neck posture-related issues).
Besides this, there are simpler causes like anemia (low hemoglobin), hypoglycemia (low sugar), prolonged fasting, low blood pressure, stress, anxiety, or lack of proper sleep.
Hence, I feel, first of all, focus on lifestyle modifications. Have a well-balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and less tea and coffee. Maintain proper posture especially while working and sleeping and take good sleep for 7-8 hours.
If still the symptoms persist then do go for some investigations like- complete blood count( especially important as you have a history of thrombocytosis), sugar levels, electrolytes, ECG, X-ray cervical spine and MRI brain. This will help us to make a proper diagnosis.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr. Milinda Gupta
There can be many causes of swaying, weakness, and vertigo. One of the most common causes is diseases associated with ear like labyrinthitis (infection of the ear), vestibular neuritis (inflammation of the nerves), or BPPV (benign positional vertigo). It can also be related to diseases of the brain (infection or swelling) or heart disorders (arrhythmia- rhythm disturbances).
Since you have a history of lumbar disc disease, there is always a chance of similar cervical disc disease (neck posture-related issues).
Besides this, there are simpler causes like anemia (low hemoglobin), hypoglycemia (low sugar), prolonged fasting, low blood pressure, stress, anxiety, or lack of proper sleep.
Hence, I feel, first of all, focus on lifestyle modifications. Have a well-balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and less tea and coffee. Maintain proper posture especially while working and sleeping and take good sleep for 7-8 hours.
If still the symptoms persist then do go for some investigations like- complete blood count( especially important as you have a history of thrombocytosis), sugar levels, electrolytes, ECG, X-ray cervical spine and MRI brain. This will help us to make a proper diagnosis.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr. Milinda Gupta
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