What Everybody Ought to Know About Dizziness

When you were a child, you probably made yourself dizzy sometimes just for the fun of it. Now that you’re grown up, you may find that it’s no longer a laughing matter. In fact, dizziness is one of the most common and complicated medical complaints.

Learn how to distinguish between the main varieties of dizziness, and find out what you can do to stay steady on your feet. This quick guide will show you what you need to know.

Facts about Dizziness

Dizziness can occur when you’re recovering from the flu or it can strike out of nowhere. Whatever the cause, being informed can help you restore your balance.

1. Recognize different kinds of dizziness. Vertigo is the most common form of dizziness, and it’s not what you see in the movies. It’s the feeling that you or your surroundings are moving even when they’re standing still. Dizziness can also be related to fainting, trouble walking, or psychological conditions including depression and anxiety.

2. Know when to seek immediate care. Most cases of dizziness are not serious, but urgent care is needed for additional symptoms that could be signs of a heart condition or stroke. That includes chest pain, trouble breathing, double vision, and slurred speech.

3. Understand the effects of aging. Dizziness is more common among seniors, and it’s more likely to interfere with daily activities. Your doctor can usually customize a treatment plan that will help you remain mobile.

Short-Term Protection from Dizziness

The first thing you want to do when you’re feeling light-headed is avoid falling down or becoming involved in a car accident. Prompt action will reduce your risk of injury.

1. Stop what you’re doing. If possible, lie down and keep your head still. Sip water and avoid solid foods if you’re also experiencing nausea and vomiting.

2. Move slowly. When you’re ready, stand up gradually and avoid sudden movements. Dizziness often involves conflicting signals to your brain so move your eyes first, then your head, limbs, and torso. Take care with activities like driving, and wear sensible shoes.

3. Cut back on caffeine. Caffeine can pack a double whammy because it reduces circulation to your balance center in the inner ear and aggravates anxiety. Limit your consumption of coffee, cola, and chocolate.

Longer-Term Solutions for Dizziness

It’s important to address the underlying causes of your dizziness. Proper treatment can provide lasting relief.

1. See your doctor. Describing your symptoms accurately will help your doctor to diagnose your condition. Because dizziness affects so many different parts of your body, you may be referred to a specialist. Your doctor may also prescribe motion sickness drugs temporarily to make you more comfortable.

2. Perform targeted exercises. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy involves simple movements of the eyes, head, and body that can often make your dizziness disappear in a few minutes. Your doctor or physical therapist can give you specific instructions for your individual condition.

3. Work on your coordination. Any activity that enhances balance and eye-hand-body coordination will help fight dizziness. Play tennis or practice Tai Chi and yoga.

4. Talk it over. In some cases, dizziness may be a sign of depression and anxiety that can be helped with counselling and medication. Relaxation practices such as meditation and deep breathing can also be effective.

5. Consider surgery. Surgery for dizziness is rarer today because less invasive treatments are more widely available. However, surgery may still be recommended for chronic disorders such as Meniere’s disease.

Dizziness is usually a harmless and temporary condition, but a little knowledge can help you avoid falls and rule out more serious causes. Protect your sense of balance with simple home remedies and appropriate medical care.