What is Dizziness?

Dizziness or giddiness can refer to a variety of sensations. It is a condition caused by a problem with spatial orientation. Some people may experience vertigo, or spinning, while others experience unsteadiness.

The causes of giddiness can be due to many things. Anything that affects the balance system of the body can cause giddiness.

Our sense of balance depends on combined input from various sensory organs.  This includes the brain, inner ear, eyes and circulatory system.

Causes for Dizziness

Dizziness can be caused by a number of conditions including inner ear disturbances, motion sickness, and underlying health conditions such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, Meniere’s Syndrome, ear infections, infection of the vestibular nerve, and more

Symptoms of Dizziness

  • Lightheadedness or faintness
  • A spinning sensation
  • Unsteadiness
  • Loss of balance
  • Feeling of floating

Risks and Complications of Dizziness

Older adults are more likely to suffer from certain medical issues that can cause dizziness. You may also likely get dizzy again if you’ve experienced it before. 

Dizziness may not always indicate a severe medical condition, but it can be serious as it increases your risk of falling and injuring yourself. If your dizziness symptoms are due to an existing health problem, such as brain-related conditions, you will require immediate medical attention. 

You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience the following symptoms when feeling dizzy:

  • Chest pains
  • Double or blurred vision
  • Fainting
  • High fever
  • Numbness
  • Slurred speech 
  • Stiff neck
  • Difficulty walking

Treatment for Dizziness

Dizziness treatment focuses on resolving the underlying issue that’s causing your dizziness symptoms. In minor cases, medications and a healthy lifestyle will suffice. But in severe cases, where underlying life-threatening conditions are diagnosed, you may require surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you worry about dizziness?

Dizziness does not always indicate a serious problem, but if you experience chest pains, double or blurred vision, fainting, high fever, numbness or tingling in your body, or difficulty walking, you should seek emergency care.

How long is too long for dizziness?

Dizziness typically lasts from a few seconds to several minutes, but it can last for a few hours too. It may also be a recurring issue, happening a few times a day for a week or longer.

Can lack of sleep cause dizziness?

Yes. Sleep deprivation can lead to lightheadedness or other sensations that come with dizziness.

Can lack of water cause dizziness?

Lack of water can lead to dehydration, which lowers your blood pressure and hinders your brain from receiving enough blood. This results in lightheadedness.