Usually, getting dizzy is not a cause for alarm. However, it could be a sign of a critical underlying problem. If you suddenly feel dizzy and the dizziness lasts over 10 minutes, you should seek medical attention.
Many of us get dizzy occasionally. For example, you stand up too fast and get dizzy. You skip breakfast and lunch, leaving you feeling lightheaded by early evening.
The lightheadedness could be so severe, you feel like you’re going to faint. Dizziness is a term used to explain the feeling off-balance or lightheaded. It’s a minor setback that is over when you lie down. However, if you experience other symptoms along with dizziness, it could be a sign of a more serious health issue.
Causes of Dizziness
Dizziness can be caused by:
- A quick drop in blood pressure (like when you stand up too fast)
- Medications
- Illness
- Stress
- Infection
- Anemia
- Heavy periods
- Allergies
- Dehydration
Also, if you feel dizzy along with numbness or slurred speech, that’s a red flag of a serious health problem.
When Dizziness May Be Serious
Dizziness by itself is typically not a reason for concern, particularly if it only lasts a few minutes. However, if you have additional symptoms or are fainting, you should speak with a physician. Other signs that your dizziness could be a sign of a more serious health problem include:
- Stiff neck
- Difficulty walking
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Falling
- Chest pain
- Symptoms of a stroke
If you have a hard time moving your legs and arms, or experience double vision, you should get to the emergency room immediately. Dizziness along with back pain or shortness of breath are signs of a heart attack.
Treating Common Dizziness
Generally, the best way to remedy a minor bout of dizziness is to lie down and rest. You can also drink some water or eat a light snack. If the room is spinning, find an object and continuously stare at it. This should ease your vertigo.
If your dizziness doesn’t go away after these remedies, something more serious might be at play and you should talk with your doctor. Also, even though one or two episodes of minor dizziness are somewhat normal, if you have regular bouts of dizziness, you should make an appointment with a medical professional who specializes in dizziness treatment.
Preventing Dizziness
Keeping a healthy weight, living a healthy lifestyle, and not smoking may help minimize the feeling of dizziness, as well as avert more severe issues. Be sure to meet with your physician if you frequently have dizzy spells. You must tell precisely what your dizziness feels like. The more specific you are, the better your doctor will be able to diagnose the underlying health problem.
Diagnosing Dizziness
When it comes to diagnosing dizziness, your doctor will perform an examination and ask you about your symptoms and their frequency of them. Make sure to tell your doctor about any medications that you are taking as well. You might also need to take a blood test, a hearing test, a balance test, as well as other tests to check your heart and blood vessels.