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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

AIBU to go to a&e

225 replies

Zd24 · 10/01/2025 13:56

Posting for traffic but basically I have been unwell for 4 months, in September I started feeling “dizzy” out of the blue, when I say dizzy I don’t mean spinning, I struggled to explain it to doctors at first. There is 2 ways I would describe the “dizziness” one is being on a boat like when you feel a boat move, it will feel like that for a split second, stop and then after it will happen again, only when I’m outside walking. Another way I could explain it is I’ll just be walking and all of a sudden it feels like the ground has moved beneath my feet for a split second, I went to the gp in September as I had this along with ear pain, doctor said could be labyrinthitis but my ears looked fine and said he didn’t know what it was and to come back if it contuined, I went back to the gp 3 times more within 3 weeks, by the end of the 3 weeks I ended up with a really bad sinus infection so the gp gave me antibiotics and put all my symptoms down to a viral infection turned bacterial. Dizziness eventually went away and then it started again mid October, sinus infection most of the symptoms resolved however I was still having green smelling discharge coming out of my nose every morning so it never fully went away even after course of antibiotics. I’ve been like this since mid October, dizziness some days is better some days worse, I had a viral illness last month and it ended with a severe sinus infection, I went to the pharmacy and had more antibiotics which I finished, but this time the symptoms haven’t got better, on the left side mainly I have pain and popping feelings in my ear, pain around my face where my sinuses are, constant green smelling discharge and a bad smell in my nose even after finishing the antibiotics, I went to the gp yesterday and explained all this and the “dizziness” she said she things it was acute sinusitis now chronic sinusitis, she looked in my nose and said the left side had congestion and most of the pain when touching my face and ear pain is on my left side. She said the next step will be to try steroid nasal spray, I started that yesterday and feel even worse, I had a really bad tension headache last night in the sides of my head, felt ok this morning and dizziness seemed a bit better, but after taking the spray this morning I have so much pressure in my face and loads of green smelling discharge coming out and ear pain, my mum things the spray is starting to work and the infection is coming out but I’m not sure ? Just been in Lidl with my 14 month old and i haven’t felt that “dizzy” before, I have so much pressure in my head and got back into the car and burst into tears, I’ve been dizzy for 4 months and now it’s got worse. I don’t know what to do, it’s genuinely ruining my life, I’m so depressed because of it and I’m scared there is something more that’s wrong or worse.

I’m feeling like I should go to hospital now as no one seems to be taking it seriously, I’ve got pain behind the back of my eyes since this morning and my face hurts to touch, my ears keep hurting and popping and as I said the dizziness has got worse since starting the spray, this can’t be normal how I’m feeling. Would I be unreasonable to go to a&e ? I am really worried this is something serious.

if anyone has been through something like this can you please give me any positive stories or advice? I thought for a long time the dizzziness was stress and anxiety but it’s not just making me physically ill it’s also making me mentally ill, it’s triggered severe panic attacks which I’ve never suffered with.

I just feel so “full” inside my head, nose and ears. I just don’t want to leave it and something bad happening. Honestly don’t know what to do.

OP posts:
Zd24 · 10/01/2025 14:16

ThinWomansBrain · 10/01/2025 14:10

Have you heard the varying news bulletins that A&E /ambulance services are under extreme pressure? I even received a text message saying that London A&E are under pressure (for reference I have used A&E once in 2024 because my GP called and told me I needed to go, and that was the first time since 2012, I am not a frequent A&E user).

I am curious to know what part of a condition that you have been experiencing for four months you consider to be an accident or an emergency.

I'm not suggesting that you don't seek treatment, but why do you imagine that A&E is appropriate?

Because I’ve been dizzy for 4 months and it has suddenly got so much worse since it was yesterday and the weeks and months before, I’ve also started now having pain behind my eyes and in my head which online I read could be signs that a chronic sinus infection has spread. I was asking for advice and if it sounded like it was turning into a more sinus infection that needed to be seen to.

its got to the point it’s making me not just physically ill but mentally, it’s ruining my life and I have 3 young children and my husband isn’t home, I’ve got no choice but to drive to pick them up from school as I have no one else and I’m getting very concerned about what is going on with me. I feel so awful and ill .
as I said it’s not just the sinus infection that’s worrying me, it’s the fact I’ve been dizzy for months and all of a sudden it’s got even worse to the point I can’t do anything and I’m getting pain behind my eyes and in my head. As I said too since all this has been going on it’s triggered severe panic attacks and causing me a lot of anxiety so I’m obviously so worried there is something more seriously wrong. And I asked for advice because of it sounds more serious like an infection that’s spread I don’t want to leave it either so I’m unsure really what to do.

OP posts:
Zd24 · 10/01/2025 14:18

babystack · 10/01/2025 14:12

Is it like a vertigo feeling? If so, you can try the Epley Manoeuvre at home. If something in your inner ear isn't working properly it can cause a lot of vertigo spells. This manoeuvre works very well.

It’s not spinning, it’s like I’m on a boat or if the ground moves beneath my feet, very hard to explain but it’s not spinning. So I’m not sure if it’s vertigo

OP posts:
HEC2746 · 10/01/2025 14:19

Have you tried other things to try and relieve the pressure, such as ear balloons and nasal rinses? Might be worth trying those too along with the steroid spray, which will take a little while to make a difference. Sympathies though, sinus issues are horrid.

HousedInMySoul · 10/01/2025 14:19

I was going to suggest sinus rinsing, too.
You can get the equipment from amazon

MyDeepZebra · 10/01/2025 14:20

Zd24 · 10/01/2025 14:16

Because I’ve been dizzy for 4 months and it has suddenly got so much worse since it was yesterday and the weeks and months before, I’ve also started now having pain behind my eyes and in my head which online I read could be signs that a chronic sinus infection has spread. I was asking for advice and if it sounded like it was turning into a more sinus infection that needed to be seen to.

its got to the point it’s making me not just physically ill but mentally, it’s ruining my life and I have 3 young children and my husband isn’t home, I’ve got no choice but to drive to pick them up from school as I have no one else and I’m getting very concerned about what is going on with me. I feel so awful and ill .
as I said it’s not just the sinus infection that’s worrying me, it’s the fact I’ve been dizzy for months and all of a sudden it’s got even worse to the point I can’t do anything and I’m getting pain behind my eyes and in my head. As I said too since all this has been going on it’s triggered severe panic attacks and causing me a lot of anxiety so I’m obviously so worried there is something more seriously wrong. And I asked for advice because of it sounds more serious like an infection that’s spread I don’t want to leave it either so I’m unsure really what to do.

Call 111.

They will go through a list of questions which will detect whether it's serious or not.

You will receive a call back from a clinician,
who will advise whether you need to be seen in person or not. They can book you an appointment. If THEY think it's an emergency they will suggest A&E.

You will receive some sort of appropriate treatment via 111. Quicker than A&E, which is not the place for you right now.

Owwwwwww · 10/01/2025 14:21

Zd24 · 10/01/2025 14:16

Because I’ve been dizzy for 4 months and it has suddenly got so much worse since it was yesterday and the weeks and months before, I’ve also started now having pain behind my eyes and in my head which online I read could be signs that a chronic sinus infection has spread. I was asking for advice and if it sounded like it was turning into a more sinus infection that needed to be seen to.

its got to the point it’s making me not just physically ill but mentally, it’s ruining my life and I have 3 young children and my husband isn’t home, I’ve got no choice but to drive to pick them up from school as I have no one else and I’m getting very concerned about what is going on with me. I feel so awful and ill .
as I said it’s not just the sinus infection that’s worrying me, it’s the fact I’ve been dizzy for months and all of a sudden it’s got even worse to the point I can’t do anything and I’m getting pain behind my eyes and in my head. As I said too since all this has been going on it’s triggered severe panic attacks and causing me a lot of anxiety so I’m obviously so worried there is something more seriously wrong. And I asked for advice because of it sounds more serious like an infection that’s spread I don’t want to leave it either so I’m unsure really what to do.

Please ring 111 and explain all your symptoms OP. They will advise if you need to go to A&E or whether to continue with your prescribed treatment. Best of luck, it sounds really awful especially as you are looking after your children alone. Can you get your OH to come home as it doesn’t sound safe atm.

WhoPutTheBomp · 10/01/2025 14:22

I reckon stemitil tablets would help you. Can you ring your GP sugery to explain symptoms worsening and ask for a call back?

hagchic · 10/01/2025 14:23

What are you planning to do with your 3 children whilst you sit for 12-24hrs in A&E?

You mentioned your husband not helping - are you hoping that by going to A&E he will start to take this more seriously and help you?

You also mention panic attacks and anxiety.

I think there is far more going on than dizziness, but none of which can be sorted out in A&E.

Speak to 111/ A pharmacist or GP and your husband - tell your husband you are struggling at the moment and ask for help.

You say you 'can't do anything' - but you can, you describe driving, caring for your children and you are posting and answering posts here.

Some of it sounds like you catastrophising the situation, - if this is something you know you do, you should seek help from the GP for CBT/mental health assistance.

Deadbeatex · 10/01/2025 14:25

Given the current pressure a&e are under its a definite yabu from me but I'm not medically trained. You've not had an accident that is life or limb threatening and it's not an emergency as its been ongoing for 4 months therefore a&e doesn't sound the most appropriate. Chase up your GP again or speak to a pharmacist

GailTheSnail · 10/01/2025 14:26

Have you had any bloods done yet? That seems to be the logical thing

TeenLifeMum · 10/01/2025 14:26

I had this September to March when it suddenly disappeared. Awful and frustrating with no answer but I did regularly do the Epley manoeuvre and I felt it helped. It’s not an A&E thing I’m afraid - there’s no quick fix. Mine wasn’t labyrinthitis but similar and something to do with crystals entering the ear fluid so the manoeuvre helps them settle. Mine was triggered by a cold virus. I also got pleurisy and ended up on steroids for asthma.

in hindsight, I’m doing much better this winter than last 🙈 I think I’d blocked it out until this thread.

GailTheSnail · 10/01/2025 14:27

GailTheSnail · 10/01/2025 14:26

Have you had any bloods done yet? That seems to be the logical thing

I ask because I had ongoing sinus issues which turned out to be something else - only picked up on after blood tests.

Zd24 · 10/01/2025 14:32

GailTheSnail · 10/01/2025 14:27

I ask because I had ongoing sinus issues which turned out to be something else - only picked up on after blood tests.

yes ive had bloods done. Everything is normal so nothing that is causing the dizziness or other issues. I’m wondering if at this point I should pay to see a private doctor and find out what’s going on

OP posts:
MoiraRoseIsMyQueen · 10/01/2025 14:33

100% a sinus infection, I suffer from similar all the time, especially in winter. All of your symptoms are absolutely classic - miserable, but absolutely not one forA&E. What do you think they will do that your GP can’t? Is there a reason you can’t go back to your GP?

ImWorkingLateCosImASingerrrr · 10/01/2025 14:33

There is absolutely nothing about your post that is anything near an Accident or Emergency. I don't mean to be rude, but people like you is why the A&Es are clogged up. A&E is for accidents and urgent emergency situations. A horrible, granted, sinus infection is neither one of those.

You only started the sprays yesterday..

Autumnalmists · 10/01/2025 14:34

You say you need he,p due to your mental health.
sp, 111 can advise you on phone numbers you can ring in your area for urgent treatment for anxiety and a mental health crisis.
A&E will have a mental health approved worker for mental health crisis.

for an ongoing physical health issue A&E are not the right place. Is it accident? No. is it an emergency??
Asking for a referral to ENT through Gp would be a good step for diagnosis and treatment.

Lifestooshort71 · 10/01/2025 14:35

Is your mum able to help you with the children (you mentioned her earlier) - it's miserable to have to keep going when you're poorly. Can your husband take some time off to care for them just to give you time to reassess what's going on?

Counterpane · 10/01/2025 14:35

I've had Labyrinthitis for years and my symptoms are similar to yours, OP.

My doctor prescribed Betahistine, which made a lot of difference. There are two strengths, 16 mg initially and then 8 mg as a maintenance dose three times per day.

i

CandiedPrincess · 10/01/2025 14:36

Back to the GP and push for an ENT referral.

A&E are on their arse at the moment with actual emergencies, so you would be very unreasonable to go there for a chronic condition.

travelforthesoul · 10/01/2025 14:37

Ive had some hideous long-lasting sinus infections. Your GP needs to test your phlegm and match the antibiotics with your type of bacteria. And refer you to ENT as a persistent case of sinus issue.
Also a longer course of antibiotics with steroids should shift it. It sounds like it has settled into the crevices of your sinus/ears and not fully being killed off.

As for A&E dont go there, its not an accident or emergency. You have been given useful advice upthread too, use your steroid spray, it will help too.

WinterBones · 10/01/2025 14:39

you haven't said, have you tried nasal rinses?

you can't go to A&E with this, give the GP a call and go back again if you have to.

Mostlyoblivious · 10/01/2025 14:39

Get a call back with the GP: tell them the steroid is making symptoms worse, that you want a referral to ENT and another course of ABX (will they consider an IV course having failed on ?2 courses). I would also see an ENT privately in the meantime.

Yes if the pain, pressure or dizziness increases and you have a temperature or disorientation or sleepiness then you should go to A&E.

I also suggest getting Sterimar nasal spray to wash out before you take the steroid spray

Changeagain3 · 10/01/2025 14:39

@Zd24

Is there any swelling behind your ear? extreme pain if you press around the ear (behind and above the ear)? Any reduction in hearing?

Generally, sinus infections or ear infections can cause dizziness and pain you describe but would normally clear up with treatment. It looks like the treatment helped but didn't resolve the infection which has allowed it to spread again. This can be problematic as not only do you end up feeling bad for so long the antibiotics are less effective.

On the one hand the green coming out could be indicating that the treatment is working but on the other hand it may not clear it up entirely and the issue will keep happening. This is why I would push for a referral to ENT.

I would contact the GP again today for advise or 111 maybe better at this time. I wouldn't leave it over weekend especially if things don't start to improve soon or if they get worse.
Can your mum collect children from school or someone else?
I would avoid driving if at all possible.
Can your mum help out while husband is at work. Can your husband come home earlier?

ImWorkingLateCosImASingerrrr · 10/01/2025 14:41

hagchic · 10/01/2025 14:23

What are you planning to do with your 3 children whilst you sit for 12-24hrs in A&E?

You mentioned your husband not helping - are you hoping that by going to A&E he will start to take this more seriously and help you?

You also mention panic attacks and anxiety.

I think there is far more going on than dizziness, but none of which can be sorted out in A&E.

Speak to 111/ A pharmacist or GP and your husband - tell your husband you are struggling at the moment and ask for help.

You say you 'can't do anything' - but you can, you describe driving, caring for your children and you are posting and answering posts here.

Some of it sounds like you catastrophising the situation, - if this is something you know you do, you should seek help from the GP for CBT/mental health assistance.

All of this!

fandjango · 10/01/2025 14:41

If ask your GP for an ENT referral. Dizziness like you are describing is absolutely debilitating. I had suspected labyrinthitis, BBPV and menieres.

After a private ENT referral I was diagnosed with Vestibular Migraines (Migranious Vertigo)

When I get an attack it feels like i'm on a boat swaying. I feel like i'm not here and it's like an alice in wonderland sensation where the floor isn't normal and i'm not walking properly. It causes a big surge of anxiety as I feel completely out of control.

My symptoms are a lot worse when i have a cold/flu/sinus infection as the ext rs pressure in my head is a trigger.

Here is an overview

Vestibular migraine is a type of migraine that can cause dizziness, imbalance, and other symptoms that affect the ears, vision, and balance. It's also known as migrainous vertigo.

Symptoms

•	Dizziness that feels like spinning, rocking, swaying, or floating 
•	Lightheadedness 
•	Sensitivity to light, sound, or movement 
•	Nausea and vomiting 
•	Visual disturbances, such as flashing lights 

Triggers

•	Stress 
•	Sleep problems 
•	Dehydration 
•	Hormonal changes, such as menstruation or menopause 
•	Certain foods, especially caffeine 
•	Weather changes 
•	Strong odors 

Treatment

•	Lifestyle changes, such as identifying and avoiding triggers 
•	Medications, such as triptans, antihistamines, and anti-nausea drugs 
•	Seizure medicines, blood pressure medicines, and some antidepressants