Experiencing Persistent Dizziness: A Call for Insights
Hello everyone, I am a 33-year-old male weighing 235 pounds, and I am not involved in smoking or drug use. I occasionally take Lorazepam when necessary. I’m reaching out in hopes of gathering insights from those who may have encountered similar health issues. In August 2023, I transitioned out of the military after nearly a decade of service. Shortly before an important date—September 14, 2023—I experienced a significant loss of appetite that led to a weight loss of nearly 15 pounds. Despite feeling fine otherwise, everything changed on my D-Day. For five consecutive days, I was unable to lift my head due to debilitating dizziness, and my ability to eat diminished greatly. During this period, I also experienced intense sensations of detachment from reality, alongside the severe dizziness. Fast forward to now, and I have struggled to feel ‘normal’ for nearly two years, which has been quite distressing. Each day, I encounter a sensation I refer to as "spaciness", varying in intensity from mild to severe. I have consulted various healthcare providers, undergone blood tests, and received multiple imaging tests—including MRI and CT scans of my brain—yet the results largely indicate that everything is normal. I am fortunate to have a wonderful primary care physician who is dedicated to uncovering the root of my struggles and actively seeking solutions. Recently, during an audiology appointment as part of my comprehensive evaluation, it was noted that my left ear exhibits slightly abnormal responses. This finding may lead to a VNG test, which I hope will provide some clarity to my situation. I would greatly appreciate hearing from anyone who has experienced something similar or has insights to share regarding my condition!
Answers (1)
7/27/2025, 11:40:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been through quite a challenging time, and your symptoms of persistent dizziness and feelings of detachment can be very distressing. Based on your description, it could be associated with various potential causes that might not always show up on standard tests. It’s good to know you have a supportive healthcare provider who is willing to dig deeper.
Main Points:
- Persistent dizziness can be linked to issues with the inner ear, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress reactions, among other factors.
- It's important to continue with the detailed testing and evaluations you’ve been undergoing.
- Managing symptoms through lifestyle adjustments and coping strategies can help improve your quality of life.
Explanation:
Dizziness can arise from several sources. Given your military background and significant life changes, stress and anxiety could play a role in your symptoms. The detachment you describe could be related to anxiety or even vestibular issues related to your inner ear function, which you’re currently being assessed for with the upcoming VNG test. Even when blood tests and imaging appear normal, certain conditions—especially related to anxiety, vestibular disorders, or even tension headaches—might still warrant exploration.
Next Steps:
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Continue with the VNG Test: Wait for the results and follow any recommendations from your audiologist. This will help clarify if there are inner ear issues contributing to your dizziness.
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Track Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including when they occur, their intensity, any associated factors (like stress or changes in sleep), and how they affect your daily life. This data can be invaluable for your doctor.
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Coping Strategies: Incorporate relaxation techniques or mindfulness exercises. Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help manage anxiety, which may alleviate some dizziness symptoms.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you stay well-hydrated and consider small, nutritious meals throughout the day, even if your appetite is low. This can support overall health and recovery.
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Follow-Up with Your Doctor: Share anything new or concerning about your symptoms during your next visit. If feasible, express any lingering concerns about your mental health, as support options may be available.
Remember, this journey can be associative of various factors, and you are not alone in this. It can take time to find the right approach that helps you feel more like yourself again. If you have more specific questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask. Your health and well-being are the priority.
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