Experiencing Dizziness and Cognitive Fog During Menstruation
Over the past couple of years, I have been experiencing dizziness and lightheadedness during my menstrual cycle. This makes it challenging for me to think clearly and see well, often causing me to lose my peripheral vision. In addition to these sensations, I frequently encounter strange occurrences such as brain zaps, tingling, and numbness in my hands and lower limbs. I also experience sudden feelings as if I am dropping, reminiscent of the sensation you have just before falling asleep when you feel like you are plummeting while still awake. On a few occasions, I have completely lost track of time, standing frozen for about ten minutes without any recall of what was happening. My menstrual cycles tend to be irregular and vary significantly in flow, fluctuating from very heavy to quite light. I do sometimes feel lightheaded outside of my menstrual period, particularly during the summer months, which I attribute to the heat. However, I make sure to stay well-hydrated, drinking ample amounts of water daily. I am a 24-year-old female, standing at 5'4" and weighing between 135 and 140 pounds. For the past six years, I have been taking 75mg of venlafaxine to manage mood-related issues stemming from a traumatic brain injury. I have consulted with a gynecologist and multiple general practitioners about my symptoms. They proposed a diagnosis of dysmenorrhea, but this does not fully account for the neurological aspects I am experiencing. One doctor suggested the possibility of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), yet blood tests failed to reveal any significant hormone imbalances or indications of insulin resistance. An ultrasound did show some characteristics slightly resembling PCOS, but not enough to meet the diagnostic criteria. Moreover, blood tests indicated a potential systemic infection, though further investigation into that was not pursued.
Answers (1)
7/18/2025, 11:01:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
Experiencing dizziness, cognitive fog, and other neurological symptoms during your menstrual cycle can be concerning. Given your description, it’s important to prioritize understanding and managing your symptoms while considering possible underlying factors.
Explanation of Symptoms
Your symptoms, which may include dizziness, cognitive fog, tingling, and visual disturbances, can sometimes relate to hormonal changes associated with your menstrual cycle or other medical conditions. Some individuals experience conditions like premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) or migraines that can contribute to neurological symptoms. Additionally, the fluctuating nature of your menstrual cycles and experiencing such symptoms could possibly indicate a complex interaction with hormone levels, despite normal test results.
Next Steps
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Track Your Symptoms: Start a symptom diary to record occurrences during your menstrual cycle, noting the severity, duration, and any potential triggers (like stress, heat, or dietary factors). This information can help identify patterns.
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Manage Lifestyle Factors: Continue to stay well-hydrated, especially during warmer months. Alongside hydration, consider:
- Balanced Diet: Incorporate foods rich in magnesium (like nuts and leafy greens) and omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish) to support neurological health.
- Regular Physical Activity: Engage in light exercise, which can increase blood flow and potentially alleviate some symptoms.
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Monitor Symptoms in Relation to Menstrual Cycle: See if certain symptoms coincide with specific phases of your cycle. This could provide insights into whether they are hormone-related or driven by another factor.
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Consult with a Specialist: If symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeking out a neurologist or an endocrinologist who can further investigate the neurological aspects of your symptoms, including possible migraines or other neurological disorders.
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Medication Review: Since you’re on venlafaxine, discuss with your doctor whether this medication might contribute to any of your symptoms and if adjustments or additional treatments might help.
Remember, while it’s important to explore these symptoms, many individuals experience varying issues associated with menstruation. You're taking proactive steps by monitoring and seeking help, which is vital. Please ensure you are comfortable with your care approach and keep communication open with your healthcare providers.
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