Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 8/9/2011

Question
Dr. Conner,
I'm not sure if you'll be able to help me, but I'm on vacation here in Hawaii.  A couple days before we arrived, I noticed I was really dizzy.  As time has gone on here, my nasal cavity keeps popping especially when I lay down on the bed.  I don't have a cold and haven't had a cold in months so I don't think it's some kind of sinus infection going on. I don't have any nasal drip or a plugged nose.  It's almost like a head cold without a cold.  When I tip my head down, it pounds and more popping occurs.  Yesterday I went zip lining and just to enjoy myself I took an ibuprofen which I don't like taking.  I don't want to take another one today.  Do you know what I could do?  Is there such a thing as having a head cold without any cold symptoms?  Thank you Dr. Conner for any advice you might have.

Answer
Hello Cyndi,
There may be some inner ear or eustachian tube dysfunction going on, but I couldn't say for sure without examining.  Either are likely, even without recent infection the reason could be minor barotrauma (such as a plane ride).  If the dizziness persists you may need to get this checked out while you are still there, more because it can interfere with your activities than that it's likely serious.  Sometimes there's not much to do in these cases but wait it out, although if any medications like Ibuprofen or herbals (immune support herbs) help it's probably worth a try to manage symptoms, and then you can see your PCP when you return home.  
Dr Conner