Differential Diagnosis for Post-Vertigo Dizziness
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Persistent Postural Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD): This condition is characterized by persistent dizziness that is exacerbated by upright posture, movement, and visual stimulation, which aligns with the patient's symptoms of feeling dizzy in public or busy places after a vertigo spell.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Visual Vertigo Syndrome: This condition involves dizziness triggered by visual stimuli, which could explain the patient's dizziness in busy or visually stimulating environments.
- Panic Attack: The patient's history of being bedbound due to vertigo and now experiencing dizziness in public places could be related to anxiety or panic attacks, especially if the vertigo spell was a triggering event.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Vestibular Migraine: Although less common, vestibular migraines can cause vertigo and dizziness, and missing this diagnosis could lead to inadequate treatment and potential complications.
- Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although the patient's symptoms have been present for 2 weeks, it's essential to consider the possibility of a stroke or TIA, especially if there are other risk factors or symptoms present.
- Multiple Sclerosis: This condition can cause vertigo and dizziness, and missing the diagnosis could lead to delayed treatment and worsening of symptoms.
- Rare diagnoses
- Mal de Debarquement Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by persistent dizziness and imbalance after a period of motion, such as a boat ride, which could be considered if the patient has a history of recent travel or motion exposure.
- Bilateral Vestibular Loss: A rare condition involving damage to both vestibular systems, which could cause chronic dizziness and imbalance, although this would typically be associated with more profound balance and hearing symptoms.