Help with these Symptoms? Anyone?

About 15 years ago I suffered a severe bout with Optic Neuritis. It went of for several days to the point of temporary blindness only seeing lights and shadows.

Since then i have suffered severe anxiety attacks, Sudden intense fatigue, and a sudden 'blast" of dizziness (Followed by a panic attck, and the feeling of being hungover) I also will get bouts of ongoing Vertigo type dizziness that may last for hours. Before Christmas I went with my daughter  on a Merry-go-round, and to spinning was so intense I had to close my eyes, or fix my vision on the front of the horse not to make it worse. it was horrible!

Any Ideas?

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

It would be difficult to determine whether the symptoms you are experiencing now are related to the previous condition of optic neuritis, although visual disorders can indeed cause vertigo and dizziness.

Vestibular disorders can also possibly present with such symptoms. However, anxiety cannot be ruled out as a possible cause especially since such conditions can cause somatic symptoms including dizziness, fatigue, and vertigo.

You should probably have your condition evaluated by a physician to rule out any serious cause for your symptoms. A talk with a counselor is also advised to manage your anxiety attacks.

In the meantime, you should try to relax as your anxiety might make your symptoms worse. Anti-vertigo medications can be taken to relieve some of the symptoms. Also try to avoid activities that might trigger or worsen your symptoms.

Hope this helps.

[Carol in PA]

HockeyShark,
Optic neuritis, anxiety attacks, and vertigo may all be caused as a result of neuroborreliosis, or Lyme Disease.



Carol

[HockeyShark]

Thank you for the help.