Dizziness

Dizziness is when you feel light-headed or unsteady, or you feel like fainting. Dizziness increases your risk of falling, and it happens when there is a problem with the parts of your body that give you proper balance. These parts include your brain, eyes, ears, and feet. You can also feel dizzy if you have not been sleeping well or have an underlying illness.

You should get medical attention from your healthcare provider if you find that dizziness begins to affect your daily activities. Dizziness usually goes away quickly when you treat the underlying cause.

Any of the following may cause dizziness:

• A quick change in the position of your head or body. Like standing up too quickly if you have been sitting.
• A sudden drop in your blood pressure can cause dizziness, which may be caused by illnesses such as diabetes or heart problems.
• Dehydration or heatstroke can lead to low blood pressure and can keep your brain from getting enough blood.
• Excessive exercise. If you feel dizzy while exercising, stop and take a rest in the shade.
• Drinking (too much) alcohol may make you feel dizzy and unstable on your feet.
• Medicines that treat high blood pressure, depression, or bacterial infection may be a cause.
• Ear or eye problems may affect your balance.
• Motion sickness when you are in a vehicle or an aeroplane can cause dizziness.
• Head injuries may result in dizziness. Be aware that you may be suffering from a brain concussion. See your healthcare provider if your dizziness does not go away or comes back after an accident.

Dizziness is a widespread symptom, and it is essential to visit your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following:

• Your dizziness persists for more than a week.
• You faint or fall when you are dizzy.
• You find it hard to keep your balance when you are sitting or walking.
• Your dizziness occurs after a head or face injury.
• Other symptoms like vomiting, headaches, nausea, and fainting alongside feeling dizzy may also require medical attention.

You may not be able to prevent feeling dizzy, but it will help if you follow the self-care tips. By choosing a healthy diet and exercising regularly, you can increase your ability to cope with stress. Avoid eating or drinking stimulants like coffee, kola nut and teas.

Treating the underlying cause is very important for managing dizziness. However, you can still manage or treat the symptom with the following:

Self-Care Tips:

• Do not move about when you get dizzy to avoid falling. Try to sit or lie down until the dizziness stops.
• Drinking plenty of fluids may help stop the dizziness if the it results from dehydration or heat.
• If you become dizzy easily, you may try using walking aids, such as a walking stick, to keep your balance.
• Avoid taking substances like alcohol, tobacco or caffeine because they can worsen your dizziness.

Treatment Options:

• Your healthcare provider may prescribe a different drug to you if the one you use causes dizziness.
• Your healthcare provider may also teach you some specific skills or exercises that can help you improve your balance.
• Inner-ear issues may be managed with medications coupled with physical exercises that help with balance.

Dizziness often goes away in a short time. If you constantly feel dizzy, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. You should also avoid driving or walking alone to ensure you are safe. Your healthcare provider will try to identify the cause of the symptom and treat the underlying disease. You can avoid falling by using the rails when climbing stairs or by using a walking stick.