Dizziness is a common sensation, often described as lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or a feeling of spinning. While breast cancer itself does not typically cause dizziness directly, its treatments and related conditions can contribute to this symptom. Understanding these connections can help individuals manage their health during a breast cancer journey.
How Breast Cancer Directly Relates to Dizziness
Primary breast cancer rarely causes dizziness unless it has spread to the brain. When cancer cells metastasize to the brain, they can form tumors that occupy space and increase pressure within the skull. This elevated intracranial pressure can lead to symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness or vertigo, which is a sensation of spinning. Brain metastases can also directly interfere with areas of the brain responsible for balance and coordination, further contributing to feelings of unsteadiness. Dizziness is not a common initial symptom of breast cancer; it typically arises only in advanced stages when brain involvement is present.
Treatment-Related Causes of Dizziness
Many treatments for breast cancer can cause dizziness as a side effect. Chemotherapy drugs, for instance, can lead to peripheral neuropathy, a condition affecting nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, which can disrupt balance and cause unsteadiness. Chemotherapy can also cause significant fatigue and dehydration, both of which are common contributors to dizziness. Specific chemotherapy agents, such as taxanes (e.g., paclitaxel and docetaxel), are frequently associated with these side effects.
Hormonal therapies, often used to treat hormone-receptor-positive breast cancers, can also play a role. Medications like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors (e.g., anastrozole, letrozole) may cause fatigue, hot flashes, and joint pain, indirectly contributing to feelings of lightheadedness or unsteadiness. While radiation therapy for breast cancer rarely causes dizziness unless it targets the head or neck, systemic effects like fatigue from extensive treatment can still lead to this symptom. Pain medications, particularly opioid analgesics prescribed for cancer-related pain, are well-known for inducing drowsiness and dizziness. Other medications often given alongside cancer treatment, such as anti-nausea drugs, certain antidepressants, or sedatives, can also list dizziness among their side effects.
Other Contributing Factors to Dizziness
Beyond direct treatment side effects, several other factors related to breast cancer and its management can contribute to dizziness. Anemia, a reduction in red blood cells, is common in cancer patients due to the disease itself or chemotherapy side effects. Fewer red blood cells mean less oxygen is delivered to the brain and other tissues, leading to fatigue and lightheadedness. Dehydration and malnutrition are also significant contributors, often resulting from nausea, vomiting, or a decreased appetite experienced during cancer treatment. When the body lacks sufficient fluids and nutrients, blood pressure can drop, causing dizziness.
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a persistent and overwhelming tiredness that is not relieved by rest and is frequently reported by individuals with breast cancer. This profound fatigue can impair concentration, coordination, and overall physical stability, increasing the likelihood of feeling dizzy or unsteady. The psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis and its treatment, including heightened anxiety and stress, can also manifest as dizziness. Panic attacks or periods of hyperventilation can lead to lightheadedness and a sensation of unsteadiness. In rare instances, paraneoplastic syndromes, which are immune system reactions triggered by cancer that affect the nervous system, can cause balance issues and dizziness.
When to Consult a Doctor
Discuss any new or worsening dizziness with your healthcare team, especially during or after breast cancer treatment. Seek medical attention if dizziness is severe, persistent, or significantly impacts your ability to perform daily activities. Report dizziness that increases your risk of falls.
Consult a doctor immediately if dizziness is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. These include new or severe headaches, changes in vision, weakness or numbness in any part of the body, difficulty speaking, or confusion. Fainting, chest pain, shortness of breath, or fever alongside dizziness also warrant urgent medical evaluation. Open communication with your oncology team about all symptoms ensures proper assessment and management.