Seeking Clarity on Severe Dizziness and Unusual Sound in My Head
I’m a 20-year-old assigned female at birth, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 176 pounds. My sole prescription is 120mg of Venlafaxine, which I take for autism, and I’ve been on this medication for a longer period than the symptoms I’m experiencing, which started appearing in 2022. When the pain becomes unbearable, I resort to dipyrone monohydrate (500mg). This situation has persisted for about six months, and the intensity has increased over time. I frequently notice a strange “sizzling” sound, localized at the nape of my neck, specifically at the base of my skull. This unsettling experience is always accompanied by severe nausea and dizziness; on occasion, I sense the nausea before the dizziness strikes. I have encountered this sensation enough times to distinguish it from car sickness. Originally, the dizziness would follow the nausea, but now it occurs throughout the day and is so severe that it hampers my daily activities. I struggle to look at screens, and any surrounding noise exacerbates my condition. Blinking intensifies the discomfort, and I feel pressure between my eyebrows, accompanied by pain above my ears. The sensation reminds me of being overstimulated when I’m off my medication, but significantly more intense. Last week alone, I experienced the sizzling sensation at least five times, and today, I found it challenging to get out of bed due to the dizziness. I’m eager to unravel what might be causing these symptoms. I have consulted numerous doctors, each referring me to others who might provide a solution. This week, I will undergo an MRI and blood tests as advised by my doctor, hoping for some insights into my situation. For clarity, the sizzling sensation resembles the moment when you suck soda through a straw and momentarily pinch it closed, creating a similar feeling.
Answers (1)
8/17/2025, 2:30:57 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are dealing with some complex and distressing symptoms, which can be really challenging. Your experiences of severe dizziness, nausea, and the unusual "sizzling" sound at the base of your skull are concerning, especially since they impact your daily life. It’s great that you are being proactive with your health by pursuing an MRI and blood tests.
Understanding Your Symptoms
The symptoms you're experiencing could relate to various underlying issues, including but not limited to:
- Vestibular disorders (affecting balance and spatial orientation).
- Neurological causes (like migraines or tension headaches).
- Side effects of medications (though your Venlafaxine regimen seems stable).
- Increased sensitivity to sensory input, which could be tied to your autism.
Given that these symptoms have progressively worsened over six months, continuing to seek clarity through medical tests is essential.
Immediate Next Steps
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Documenting the timing, frequency, and intensity of your symptoms can provide useful information for your healthcare provider. Note any triggers, such as particular activities or environments, that seem to exacerbate your symptoms.
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Manage Triggers: Since noise exacerbates your discomfort, consider using noise-canceling headphones or finding a quiet space when you feel overwhelmed. Reducing screen time, especially during flare-ups, may also help.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure you’re staying hydrated and eating balanced meals. Sometimes, dehydration or certain foods can exacerbate nausea and dizziness.
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Relaxation Techniques: Engage in gentle activities that promote relaxation, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises. This might help mitigate some of the dizziness and nausea.
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Prepare for Your MRI and Blood Tests: Write down any questions or concerns you have for your healthcare providers regarding your symptoms. Be sure to discuss your ongoing symptoms in relation to the MRI and blood test findings once you have them.
Follow-Up
It's understandable that you’re seeking answers, and it's okay to feel frustrated during this process. Once you receive the results of your tests, further conversations with your healthcare providers will be crucial to better understand the underlying cause and tailor a management plan that suits your unique situation.
If your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms (like severe headaches, visual disturbances, or weakness), it’s important to seek urgent medical attention. Your well-being is a priority, and you deserve to find clarity and relief.
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