Syncope and Dizziness
I immediately noticed improvement
This document is to describe my diagnosis and treatment by Dr. Joy Zhao and to attest to the progress I have made thus far.
My issues with syncope (fainting) began in the summer of 2017. During one occurrence, I fell and fractured my ankle. Being stubborn, I did not listen to my physician’s advice to stay off of it. It therefore did not heal properly and an ankle fusion surgery was scheduled for January, 2018. Meanwhile, my episodes of dizziness increased along with episodes complete loss of consciousness.
After my surgery, my blood pressure in the hospital plummeted along with my cortisol levels. My one night stay turned into seven. I would become dizzy just trying to sit up in bed. A cardiologist was brought in to assess me and a litany of tests was performed. Because of the dizziness and continued fainting, it was not safe for me to return home and I was sent to an assisted living facility for over two weeks.
The cardiologist finally ruled out any heart issues. An endocrinologist determined that I had adrenal deficiencies which caused the cortisol levels to drop and prescribed both steroids and medication to raise my blood pressure. I was also sent to UW medical Center for a Tilt Table Test. Meanwhile at home now, my episodes of dizziness were occurring 5–10 times daily with total loss of consciousness happening 3–5 times per week. I was unable to work, drive or basically function. I became increasing depressed.
I had seen Dr. Zhao previously for headaches with fantastic results and wanted to see what she thought of my condition. We discussed a plan to keep my medications and their current levels and to introduce both cranial and lower lumbar acupuncture treatment.
I immediately noticed improvement after my first session. The dizziness dropped to 3–5 times per day and fainting only occurred once. After a month of treatment, dizziness is minimal and no loss of consciousness. As I enter the maintenance phase of the plan, the ultimate goal is to alleviate the need for medication.
I realize that my rapid results are dramatic and may not be normal. Dr. Zhao’s unique combination of applying both Eastern and Western medicine in her practice has helped me to the point of where I am now
comfortable to return to work, to drive and to resume a “normal” life. I am eternally grateful to
both Dr. Zhao and her colleague Jonathan for giving me quality of life.