Dizziness is a common complaint characterized by a sensation of imbalance, the feeling that the surroundings are spinning, lightheadedness, or a sensation of near-fainting. It may be triggered by sudden movements, blood pressure changes, inner ear disorders, or certain systemic diseases. In most cases, it is temporary and harmless; however, if it occurs frequently or interferes with daily life, further evaluation is necessary.
What is dizziness?
Dizziness refers to sensations such as vertigo or lightheadedness that arise from disruption of the balance system. It generally appears in two main forms.
Vertigo is the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning. Many people describe it as “everything is spinning.”
Lightheadedness, on the other hand, is a feeling of the head being light, empty, or unsteady and may be accompanied by a sensation of near-fainting. These two conditions can have different causes, and distinguishing between them requires clinical evaluation.
What causes dizziness?
Dizziness can result from many different conditions, including inner ear disorders, blood pressure changes, heart rhythm abnormalities, low blood sugar, dehydration, stress, and, more rarely, brain or vascular diseases.
The most common cause is related to the inner ear. Displacement of tiny crystals within the inner ear that help maintain balance can lead to sudden dizziness. This condition is called benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and typically occurs when the head position changes.
Sudden drops in blood pressure are also a frequent cause of dizziness. When standing up quickly, blood flow to the brain may temporarily decrease, leading to lightheadedness. Low blood sugar, dehydration, and certain medications can have similar effects.
In some individuals, arrhythmias may cause dizziness by reducing blood flow to the brain due to very slow or very fast heart rates. Migraine attacks, inner ear infections, neck-related problems, and significant stress are also among common triggers. Rarely, stroke or serious vascular disease may be the underlying cause.
Symptoms of dizziness
Dizziness may be accompanied by sensations such as spinning, imbalance, nausea, near-fainting, ringing in the ears, or darkening of vision.
The most common symptoms include:
- A sensation that the surroundings are spinning
- Imbalance or unsteadiness
- Feeling like you may faint
- Nausea or vomiting
- Ringing in the ears
- Darkening of vision
- Sweating
- A light or empty feeling in the head
These symptoms may last for a few seconds or persist for hours. In some people, they are triggered by head movements, while in others they may occur suddenly even at rest.
How does dizziness improve?
Dizziness can often be relieved by moving to a safe position, avoiding sudden movements, ensuring adequate fluid intake, stabilizing blood sugar levels, calming down, and, when appropriate, performing specific head exercises.
When you feel dizzy, it is important to sit or lie down in a safe place. Avoid standing to reduce the risk of falling. Closing your eyes or focusing on a fixed point may help reduce the spinning sensation.
Make sure you are not dehydrated and drink water if needed. If you suspect low blood sugar, a light snack may help. Deep breathing and staying calm are important, as anxiety and panic can worsen symptoms.
Avoid sudden movements. Move slowly when getting out of bed or changing positions, and try not to turn your head quickly.
In cases of positional vertigo, specific head maneuvers such as the Epley maneuver may be effective. These exercises should be learned from a healthcare professional.
What helps relieve dizziness?
Measures that may help reduce dizziness include drinking plenty of water, eating regularly, getting adequate sleep, reducing stress, engaging in light exercise, and limiting caffeine and alcohol.
- Adequate hydration helps maintain fluid balance and may prevent dizziness.
- Regular, balanced meals help prevent low blood sugar.
- Caffeine and alcohol may worsen dizziness in some individuals and should be limited.
- Sufficient sleep is important, as fatigue can negatively affect balance.
- Stress-reducing activities such as walking, yoga, or meditation may help reduce symptoms.
- Regular light exercise can strengthen balance, but strenuous activity should be avoided during dizzy episodes.
- Reducing salt intake may be beneficial in certain inner ear disorders.
- Ginger tea may help relieve nausea. Although some people benefit from herbal supplements, these should only be used after consulting a doctor.
When should you see a doctor?
You should consult a doctor if dizziness occurs frequently, becomes progressively worse, or interferes with daily life. Urgent medical attention is required if dizziness is accompanied by any of the following:
- Severe headache
- Sudden visual disturbance or double vision
- Difficulty speaking
- Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg
- High fever
- Neck stiffness
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Persistent vomiting
- Falls or loss of consciousness
These symptoms may indicate a stroke, heart disease, or a serious neurological condition. In such cases, call emergency services immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Is dizziness a sign of a serious disease?
In most cases, dizziness is not serious and is related to inner ear problems or blood pressure changes. However, if other symptoms are present, further evaluation is required.
How long does dizziness last?
The duration depends on the underlying cause. Some episodes resolve within seconds, while others may last for days.
Which doctor should I see for dizziness?
Initial evaluation can be performed by a family physician or internal medicine specialist. If necessary, referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist, neurologist, or cardiologist may be made.
Can dizziness be related to stress?
Yes. Stress and anxiety can cause dizziness, and controlling stress may help relieve symptoms.
Are there exercises that can be done at home?
Certain types of dizziness may improve with specific exercises. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor before performing these exercises.
Reference: Dizziness