What are the possible reasons for a combination of spotting, headaches, vomiting and lightheadedness?

Doctor's Answers 1

By spotting, I think you mean that you have light vaginal bleeding that happens outside of your regular periods. A small amount of blood is involved in spotting and this can be noticed on the toilet paper after using the bathroom or in the undergarments.

Bleeding or spotting any time other than when a woman has her period is considered abnormal vaginal bleeding. There are many different causes of spotting between periods. Sometimes, it can be a sign of a serious problem, but oftentimes there is nothing to be concerned about.

Stress can cause all kinds of changes in a woman’s body, including fluctuations in the menstrual cycle. Some women may experience vaginal spotting due to high levels of physical or emotional stress.

The combination of symptoms that you mention makes me think that you most likely have generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). Anxiety can lead the body to release all kinds of stress hormones (including adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol). These hormones and their break down metabolites can produce all sorts of symptoms in one’s body. Symptoms of GAD can include:

Sleep disturbances – typically problems falling asleep and maintaining sleep
Excessive, ongoing worry and tension
An unrealistic view of problems
Restlessness or a feeling of being "edgy"
Irritability
Muscle tension
Headaches
Sweating
Difficulty concentrating
Nausea and vomiting, abdominal discomfort
Frequent urination
Tiredness
Trembling
Being easily startled

Similar Questions

When should I be concerned about spotting in the middle of my period cycle?

Mid cycle spotting is not uncommon, and it occurs around the time of the ovulation, due to a temporary drop in the levels of hormones (which helps to build up the inner lining of the womb). If you have taken the birth control pill and it stops the mid cycle spotting, it indicates ovulation as the likely reason for the mid cycle bleeding. This is because the birth control pill works by inhibiting ovulation (hence preventing pregnancy). Usually mid cycle spotting due to ovulation lasts 1-2 days and clears quickly.

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Human

What could cause irregular spotting between periods?

Irregular spotting between periods is also known as intermenstural bleeding. There can be a variety of reasons behind the occurrence of intermenstural bleeding. Some of the common reasons may include early pregnancy, vaginal infections or STDs or even cervical or endometrial polyps. If you are experiencing such symptoms, it would be important for you to see your doctor to undergo further investigations to find out the underlying reason behind it. Hope this helps.

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Answered By

Dr Michelle Chia

General Practitioner

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