Ashford Clinic Blog
Feeling Dizzy?
Do you find yourself regularly losing balance, experiencing episodes of spinning, feeling woozy or lightheaded, suffering injuries, or getting into accidents? If so, you are experiencing what is commonly referred to as feeling dizzy. While it is fairly common, particularly among older adults, recurring bouts of this sensation are likely indicators of something more serious. Most instances of dizziness are treatable once the root cause is determined, but it is important to take note exactly what symptoms you are experiencing. Since “dizzy” is a broad term that is used to describe several sensations, including lightheadedness and vertigo, keeping track of the symptoms you experience can help point to the root of the issue.
What is it?
Dizziness encompasses a number of symptoms, including:
- Lightheadedness - the feeling that you might pass out or faint
- Vertigo - the feeling that you or your surroundings are moving when there is no movement
- Feeling “fullness” in the ear or hearing a ringing or roaring
- Blurred vision or abnormal eye movements
- Floating or swaying sensation
- Nausea or vomiting
The cause of your symptoms can include any of the following:
- Medications
- Inner-ear disorders
- Heart-related issues
- Migraine headaches
- Low blood sugar
- Anemia
- Lupus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Meniere’s disease
- Circulation problems
- Allergies
- Overheating & dehydration
- In rare cases, neurological disorders
How is it treated?
A proper diagnosis of the treatment causing dizziness is key to determining the best route of treatment. Treatment can be different from one case to the next due to the variation in causating conditions. For example, if symptoms are caused by abnormal buildup of crystals in the inner ear, a repositioning maneuver known as the Epley maneuver can do the trick. Conversely, patients suffering from age-related degeneration of their balance systems require more labor-intensive treatment like rehabilitative training that can restore function and confidence. See your doctor today if you are suffering from dizzy spells to determine the best treatment options for you.
