What Causes Dizziness, Vertigo, and Vomiting?

May 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Man
Introduction
Dizziness, vertigo, and vomiting constitute a common group of symptoms. Hypertension—particularly marked elevation in blood pressure—must be ruled out first. Hypertensive emergency is defined as systolic blood pressure >180 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure >120 mmHg. If accompanied by headache, nausea, and vomiting, it may progress to severe cardiovascular or cerebrovascular complications; thus, blood pressure monitoring is essential in such cases.

Dizziness, vertigo, and vomiting frequently occur in daily life. What causes these symptoms?

What Causes Dizziness, Vertigo, and Vomiting?

Dizziness, vertigo, and vomiting constitute a common cluster of symptoms. The first condition to rule out is hypertension—particularly when blood pressure is markedly elevated. Hypertensive emergency is defined as systolic blood pressure exceeding 180 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure exceeding 120 mmHg. When accompanied by headache, nausea, and vomiting, it may indicate severe cardiovascular or cerebrovascular complications, necessitating immediate blood pressure monitoring. Additionally, dizziness with vomiting warrants evaluation for cerebral hypoperfusion, especially in middle-aged and elderly patients; thorough clinical assessment at a hospital is essential to exclude cerebrovascular disease. In women of childbearing age, pregnancy must also be considered.

Vertigo is a relatively common neurological disorder. During the acute phase, appropriate sedatives—such as diazepam or lidocaine—may be administered. Anticholinergic agents—including scopolamine hydrobromide, atropine, and anisodamine—may also be used. Furthermore, medications possessing both sedative and anticholinergic properties—such as diphenhydramine and promethazine—are suitable options. Combination therapy with agents that improve cerebral circulation and alleviate vertigo is often employed; commonly used drugs include flunarizine hydrochloride, betahistine (e.g., Serc®), sodium bicarbonate, papaverine hydrochloride, and low-molecular-weight dextran.

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