Dizziness
What is Dizziness?
Dizziness is an unsteady feeling accompanied by lightheadedness, vertigo, faintness, and loss of balance. It is a nonspecific term which can refer to a range of sensations such as feeling faint, woozy, weak, or queasy.
Dizziness can be caused by low blood pressure or a disruption in blood flow to the brain, dehydration, certain medications, or medical conditions such as vertigo, hearing loss, or cardiovascular disorders.
Symptoms of Dizziness
The symptoms of dizziness may vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:
- Lightheadedness
- Vertigo
- Loss of balance
- Nausea
- Blurred vision
- Sweating
- Ringing in the ears
Causes of Dizziness
Dizziness can be caused by a variety of factors. Common causes include:
- Low blood pressure
- Dehydration
- Medication side effects
- Alcohol or drug use
- Anxiety or emotional distress
- Inner ear problems
- Cardiovascular issues such as arrhythmia or heart disease
- Brain disorders such as stroke or brain tumor
Treatment for Dizziness
Treatment for dizziness will depend on the cause. Common treatments include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and alternative therapies.
- Lifestyle modifications- Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise can help manage symptoms.
- Physical therapy- specific exercises can help relieve symptoms of dizziness and restore normal balance.
- Medications- Certain medications such as antihistamines, anticholinergics, and antianxiety medications can help relieve symptoms.
- Alternative therapies- Yoga, acupuncture, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can help alleviate symptoms of dizziness.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you experience sudden or severe dizziness, if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion. These could be signs of a serious medical condition.