Causes for Dizziness

Posted By Joe on August 31, 1998 at 15:10:51:







I have been experiencing some frequent dizzy spells over the last 4 to 5 months. Some are worse than others, but generally the episodes last no more than about 1 hour or less. My family physician has done 2 blood profiles over the last 4 months, with slightly worsening results, specifically in terms of LDL, HDL, Uric Acid, and Tryglycerides. MY LDL was 190,and the others were marginally above or below the norm, as the case may be. My physician prescribed Prevachol for the cholesterol, and Antivert for dizziness. Both of these drugs seemed to exacerbate my symptoms, both in severity and frequency.
I then consulted an ear specialist, who reviewed the blood profiles and my own recollections. He performed a hearing test,with no major hearing abnormality. He then prescribed Lipitor to replace the Prevachol (10mg), and Valium to control the dizzy spells. Although it helps, I continue to have dizzy spells when not taking the Valium. I do smoke, but have cut my consumption in half. I also have gout and take colchicine twice daily. It seems that since I have been taking the cholesterol and other medications (particularly the valium), the incidence of soreness in my toe joints (gouty arthritis) has become more frequent.
While I've probably given you too much information, I should mention I am about 40 pounds overweight, 37 years old, and have some family history of high blood pressure and diabetes. Can high cholesterol, blood viscosity, or high uric acid levels cause dizziness? And could Lipitor or Valium be counteracting the colchicine in lowering my uric acid level?
Bottom line - should I get another opinion from a neurologist to rule out brain disorders? I'm a little paranoid. My sister died of a brain aneurysm at age 40 and I'm a little unsure of the causes for my dizziness.