Not Feeling Well

Updated on February 10, 2009
L.P. asks from Houston, TX
36 answers

I have been having dizzy spells for about 3 years. It started out every once in a while and I ignored them. Now they are daily, accompanied by pressure in my head & ears, spike in temperature and weakness. Any type of activity makes it worse. When I come back from walking the dog, I have to sit down so I don't pass out. I used to work out 3-5 times a week just last November. I fainted at work Friday and was sent home. I am on my second doctor now because my first doctor put me on medication for allergies, depression & meclazine for the dizziness. All that does is make me tired. My second doctor send me for tests this past week and I am scheduled to see a cardiologist on the 18th.
I have a great life, a good job, unbelievable friends, a daughter who is a chemical engineer major, a very loving supportive family etc... However, being sick and feeling this way is making it to where I can't even leave my apartment. Im getting scared and don't know what to do. I don't want to worry the people close to me so I don't discuss how scared I am right now.
Anyway, thought someone may have gone through this and it helps just venting a little bit. Thanks.

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L.S.

answers from Houston on

Hi L.. I am so sorry to hear about your situation. I know how frustrating it can be to go thru the process of trying to find a solution to your problem. I just wanted to give you a different option. Chiropractic. My family sees an excellent chiropractor on the NW side of Houston. Being adjusted has done amazing things for me, and my children. It would certainly be worth sitting down and talking to him. It is Discover Chiropractic, the number is ###-###-####. Dr. Mahan. I hope that helps..I also have a coupon for a free evaluation if you would like. Whatever you choose, I hope that you get control of this soon, and feel better.

2 moms found this helpful
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L.P.

answers from Austin on

Hey that kinda sounds like your body is missing some nutrients. Its the DR's job to load you up with medications. It is up to us to sometimes take control of our own life. I don't know if you believe in vitamins or if you take them but i tell you it is so worth it. Not just those over the counter vitamins but the natural good ones Your body will love you for it. Check out this web site www.shaklee.net/healthydesire but i really would rather email you some info on your symptoms your body will shut down on you if you don't give it what it needs please take care of yourself. you can email me at ____@____.com if you want more information

Be Blessed

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P.P.

answers from Houston on

3 things come to mind.

Have you been checked for Meniere's?

Have you seen a Chiropractor? He is excellent with verdigo. Dr. Paul Palmer in Atascocita is who I recommend.

Schedule an appointment with Mickey Jones in Kingwood. When all else fails I go to Mickey and she has been 100% correct.

1 mom found this helpful
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G.M.

answers from San Antonio on

It sounds like it might be hormonal or an allergy. Red wine makes me feel that way. Keep a journal detailing what you eat and see if there are any common factors. Good luck.

1 mom found this helpful
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E.B.

answers from Houston on

I'm sure they have checked- but how's your blood pressure? And if it is slightly elevated at the doctor's office, don't let them say "Oh, that's probably white coat syndrome." (where the sight of the dr makes your BP go up) My doctor used to say that- then he told me had two women have strokes on him in a year. Mine ran high and before I got on meds I would only be slightly elevated at the doc's office (135/80) but after a stressful few weeks it spiked to 200/100 one morning. Now I'm on BP meds. But I had the same symptoms-dizzy, huge headache and I felt discombobulated- just couldn't think. It is good that you are looking into this and keep pressing the doctors. Your symptoms are not something you should have to live with all the time. Those ARE scary feelings. Good luck.

1 mom found this helpful
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L.M.

answers from Houston on

Hate to scare you but go get tested for blood cancers. My husband was diagnosed with leukemia in November and had same things you mention here. Just check for your well being. He is 41 with no signs of anything else beofre being diagnosed.

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A.B.

answers from San Antonio on

L.,
Some of the responses you've had so far are great. There are many things that take years of testing before a diagnosis is found. Several years ago, I had unexplained dizzy spells. It got so bad I couldn't drive anymore. Very bad, as I was single and lived alone! One doctor told me that because I was in my mid-20's, I simply wasn't going to feel as good as I did when I was younger. (What hogwash!) a grad school professor told me that he had had reactive hypoglycemia (blood sugar plummets based on what you've eaten/not eaten) and my symptoms seemed similar to his, and that I should ask about it. So I did, and the next doctor said that hypoglycemia was a myth and that adults couldn't get it. By this time I was dizzy almost all the time, so I went back again. I was lucky--my doctors were in a practice together, and I saw a different one each time. (Never thought that was lucky until this situation!) This time I had a doctor who had her own issues with hypoglycemia and said my symptoms definitely mirrored hypoglycemia symptoms. She told me I was too sick for the glucose tolerance test (I'd just pass out), so I should try the "therapeutic diagnosis" -- change my diet immediately and see if I started to get better in about 4 days. Sure enough, I did. I had to cut most of the sugar out of my diet (including milk and fruit) and any msg. Slowly, I could add a small amount back in as long as I was eating it with protein or complex carbs. And, I finally had my life back, but for years I had to bring snacks with me wherever I went because I couldn't go very long without food and not get dizzy.

So, I guess my question for you is this: Does it start to get worse after you've been up and out of bed for a little while (basically, after you've had your breakfast)? My dizziness was quite a bit milder before I ate anything at the beginning of the day.

I would definitely check with a cardiologist and neurologist too; there are many things that can make you dizzy. I wanted to share my story because so many doctors would not test for it.

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J.D.

answers from Houston on

Hi L., sorry you are not feeling well. One of my coworkers has almost every symptom that you have described and when she went to the doctor for them it turned out that she has Vertigo. I am unsure what meds her Dr. put her on but it has really helped her a lot. Hope this info helps and you get to feeling better soon!!

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J.H.

answers from Houston on

Have you gone to the Dr. with this?....sounds like it could be your blood pressure. Hope you get some answers but I wouldn't put this off...I would seek professional help. Best of luck to you...you are too young to be sick!

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E.H.

answers from Houston on

Hi L.,

I am going to suggest a gynecologist by the name Dr. Byron Holt, Sr. at Memorial Prof. Bldg. II off of Frostwood and I-10 area. He can run some tests. You should also consider getting allergy tested by Dr. Pucillo's office. I had terrible cluster headaches until I figured out I needed the sublingual serums for allergies. They went away immediately. As far as the dizzy spells; I only got those when I had migraines. I still get migraines from time to time. I used to get them every week. My gynecologists ran some blood tests and come to find out, I lacked a lot of estrogen. I hope this helps. Good Luck, E.

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D.C.

answers from Austin on

Hello,

Like you, I suffered with bouts of dizziness and the unpleasantness that goes with that several years ago. I finally went to an ENT doctor only to have him tell me he thought it was allergy related. I thought he was nuts.....but for me, it turned out to be true. He put me on some nose spray and some allergy tablets and after several days on the nose spray, I was much better. I was so glad I gave it a try. I never ran any fever or anything tho........it is good you are going to have it checked out. I wish you much luck and a good report.....

D.

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K.L.

answers from Austin on

Has your Dr. done an MRI or catscan? How about your diet. As weird as it sounds, there may be something in your diet that could be triggering this. A little about me. I am a personal trainer, single mom to a wonderful 7 year old. I have trained clients with a wide variety of ailments and know that second opinions on medical issues such as yours is vital. If you are continuing to get worse then there is something that they are missing or misdiagnosing. I would get more tests done and insist that your doctors do this or recommend a specialist. Hang in there and keep us posted!

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B.K.

answers from Austin on

L., it is good that you shared your concerns. It does help to talk to someone. Isn't there a saying about sharing with a friend divides the concern (sorrow, fear, etc.) and doubles the joy. I am very glad to hear you are seeing a doctor so that you will have a solid diagnosis. Then you will be able to find a solution. Write anytime. Or if you want, let me know and I will give you my phone number. I have a daughter near your age.

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E.C.

answers from San Antonio on

I am so sorry, L.! that sounds very scary. You didn't say what kind of Dr you were seeing, but I would definately reccommend seeing a neurologist as well as an endocrinologist. The neurologist can help rule out any nerve issues (dizziness often can be caused by sudden pressure/irritation on the nerves in the inner ear due to mico-fragments bumping into the cilia in the semi-circular canals and is called vertigo). Also, due to the temperature increases and being 40- if you have gone through "the change" it could be related to that and if you haven't, it still could be the culpret. If you dont have a PPO for insurance- start with your family Dr and get referrals to these other drs and dont take no for an answer- possibly an ENT could also help with the Vertigo, but neurologists are better equipped in my opinion. Hopefully this helps!!

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M.M.

answers from Houston on

Maybe you have "Orthostatic Intolerance". It is one of those rare genetic diseases that doesn't show itself until later in life. It is where the more physically active you are, the more it takes its toll. I would check it out as most doctors don't know what it is. Has to do with the blood pooling in the legs and not returning to the head, heart and lungs fast enough. Hard to deal with, but not life threating, nor life ending. My husband has the hyperhidrosis that leads to it, but he does not have OT. Blood pressure lowering medication works wonders for it too. Also, get out of your apartment, even if it is to the local grocery store. And do it everyday. Just be sure to have correct information on you at all times.

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B.C.

answers from San Antonio on

Morning L.;

Hey, you have good reason to be scared!! Since you are
getting dizzy on a regular basis and now passing out, you
were right to change doctors.
If this one doesn't find the cause, then find another one,
doctors are not gods and there are things they miss because they do not know where to look.
Your next doctor should be an "internist", one that specializes in internal causes of problems.
Best Wishes,
B. C.

K.N.

answers from Austin on

Yes, lightheadedness can be due to a heart condition, however you might also want to see an ENT to check out whether you may have the early symptoms for vertigo. I know 2 women who have chronic vertigo that comes and goes and reading your symptoms (especially the mention of dizziness) made me think of what they've described. One is 40, the other is 52; I recall both said their symptoms started as they were around 40. (Their vertigo is brought on due to a reoccurring inner ear infection.)

Here is a link to WebMD's explanation of vertigo as well as lightheadedness:
http://www.webmd.com/brain/tc/dizziness-lightheadedness-a...

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A.W.

answers from Houston on

You are in my thoughts and prayers.. Just keep thiking positive. I know it is difficult to not worry but if u leave the worring to the Lord he will see you through this.
A.

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J.V.

answers from Austin on

I haven't experienced anything like you are going through..so glad you are not just going by one doctors medications...but seeing another... will keep you in my prayers. I would be scared as well... May God Bless you and the problem be small and easily corrected.

J.

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S.T.

answers from Houston on

I am so sorry to hear that you are suffering with these symptoms - and while I have not experienced the same myself, I can tell you that my mother has similar problems and after much examination it was determined to be due to sudden drop in bloodpressure. Medication to regulate her bloodpressure has made these dizzy episodes very rare. I hope you get answers soon.

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J.R.

answers from Austin on

hi, i have been thru depression and all that but i justwanted to say , try to be positive until you know what is wrong. why waste so much energy and wonderful time on something you do not even know you have or do not have. be an example for your daughter as i am sure you already do. i do not know if you know the Lord, but i do know He is always with you and gives you support. do not give up--

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K.P.

answers from Houston on

Sounds a little bit what my mom went through. She was tired all the time and the doctored noticed her iron was way to low. After a month of trying to get her iron up she had a hysterectomy (ladies surgery). It seemed to help and now she is great.

Lubby's cafeteria cooks liver (good source of iron).

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M.P.

answers from Sherman on

Check out Positional vertigo.Ear ,Nose and Throat Dr. can confirm but it is a self treatment done at home and there is instuctions on line. I had it for 30 yrs before I was diagnosed. It doesn't work fast but it works. Just ask the Dr. about it.Hope this helps...Rosemary

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J.L.

answers from Austin on

Have you looked into fibromyalgia? Just throwing that out. I don't understand or know what it is, but you can check out some good sources to know if that could be a root issue. I just know that people who have this feel sick all the time.

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L.H.

answers from Houston on

Dear L.,
How and when do you eat? How much sleep do you get? Have you had your iron & potassium levels checked? These questions came to mind when I read your story. What do you wear when you go for your walks? When was the last time you had a good laugh? (I got this one from Joel Osteen on t.v.! LOL) Let me know. I am not a doctor, or course, but my mother was a nurse...so I know a little. Take care, L. H.

R.W.

answers from San Antonio on

Maybe, you might have vertigo. Check with your doctor and inquire about this.

My mom has this. It can be scary. She feels very dizzy. She can't bend over because she feels like falling. Thank God she doesn't drive. She can be sitting down, and she feels dizzy. She takes medication for this.

Good Luck.

Rosie

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E.C.

answers from Houston on

Hello L., I read your email and just wanted to let you know that I don't know what's going on but I do want you to know that I will put you in my prayers!! I too occasionally get dizzy, I do have sinus problems and I've gone through the change of life with all sorts of funny signs, but I just know that we have a great God who can heal all.

Be blessed,
L. C.

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K.A.

answers from Austin on

Hi L. - The dizziness and pressure in your ears sound like something that a close friend of mine had and she ended up at a ENT (Ears Nose and Throat) Dr. who diagnosed her with vertigo but if you are also having fevers, that sounds like something else. Her vertigo was treated in a very interesting way - by having her lay on a table and move her head in different positions - some how it broke up the "crystals" that were in her ear canal. Anyway - I am probably putting it all wrong but the end result was that it worked and she did not have the dizzy spells. Regardless, your symptoms are definitely not normal so just keep going to Dr. and Dr. until you find someone that can make you feel better!

I hope you start feeling better soon!

K.

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J.T.

answers from Victoria on

Your story sounds like a TLC Mystery Diagnosis (sp). I bet its a lack in some vitamin or mineral. Hope you find your answer. Dont stop looking untill you do find your answer. Gob bless.

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L.C.

answers from Waco on

Have they checked your b-12? I had some of the same symptoms and it turns out I dont absorb b-12 I have to get a b-12 shot now.

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M.S.

answers from San Antonio on

Hi L.,

Several years ago I had all your symptoms minus the spike in temperature. Eventually, I also developed ringing in the ears and was diagnosed with Meneire's Disease. I was also prescribed the same meds you were prscribed. I did not want to do the medications so I went the holistic route. I have not had any dizziness and pressure is gone. Ringing in the ears is greatly improved. No side effects, but lots of side benefits! My prayers that you get an accurate diagnosis. If you want to know about holistic alternatives, let me know, it was a Blessing for me. In addition, I feel healthier with more energy and vitality.

###-###-####
M.

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J.S.

answers from Houston on

It is good that you are seeing a cardiologist. I agree with one of the other posters about the blood pressure. You may want to monitor it for a week or two just to see what your normal value is. Most grocery stores have a cuff you can use to check it or have someone take it for you. Your blood pressure may be high or you may have what they call orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure after sitting, laying down).

I had vasodepressor syncope in my teens and early 20's. I would become extremely dizzy and pass out after sitting down or squatting, and would pass out after walking half way across a room (the dizziness was usually delayed, so not really the same as orthostatic hypotension). My first doctor tried salt tablets and I was non-compliant so they changed my medicine to Norpace CR. I was asymptomatic after a couple of months. I was eventually weaned off medicine and now I have no symptoms.

Many prayers to you. It is very scary not knowing, but you are taking steps in the right direction finding out what is causing your symptoms. Good Luck to you!

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C.D.

answers from El Paso on

It's a very smart thing that you are getting another doctor to check you out. Remember to always get a second opinion because one doctor may not always have all the answers.Be sure and always check the side affects of every medication and be sure that all of the meds you take can be taken without a reaction due to mixture.Rest assured that its ok to vent here but its ok to allow others in our lives know that we are human and that we are afraid. You never know how this might bring you closer to someone in your life.Rest when its time but don't ever give up and keep yourself excercising remember if you don't use it you lose it.I have asked God to help you and I hope that everything works out well for you keep me updated.

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J.Z.

answers from Austin on

L., as a practicing chiropractor I'm going to echo some of the advice you've already received. In my office, I see patients every day who've been through all the initial testing for clinical conditions and come up 'empty' because no actual diagnostic 'lesion' or common entity can be found. In those cases, there is usually a factor of 'dysfunction' which is associated with poorly-functioning nervous system. Chiropractic treats just such conditions. By affecting the nervous system by way of the spinal dysfunction, many of the symptoms you describe can be easily alleviated. It's safe, drugless and non-toxic. Our rate of success is extremely high, and I recommend you find a doctor of chiropractic near you for a consultation, where they can further inform you of your options. Best of luck.

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M.D.

answers from Longview on

I know this is probably a silly question, but have they checked your ears for infection?

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C.G.

answers from Houston on

HI L., If you don't mind I would like to put your name on my prayer list. The Bible says by his stripes we are healed and I truly believe this. When I had breast cancer he healed me from some more spots that they saw on the film. This doesn't have to be.

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