Dizziness is a feeling of being lightheaded, unsteady, or off-balance. It may or may not occur with a headache. Dizziness worsens by walking, standing up, or moving your head. Hence, it interferes with the activities of daily living. Dizziness is a symptom and not a disease. It can have a gradual or sudden onset and can result from several causes.

Common causes are-

1. Middle ear infection or vestibular disorders like BPPV- In this condition, dizziness happens along with a spinning sensation known as vertigo.
2. Stress or anxiety-Chronic stress affects the hormone balance, which in turn leads to dizziness. Dizziness is also commonly experienced during anxiety attacks.
3. Dehydration-It leads to a drop in blood pressure and results in dizziness.
4. Migraine-It is a pulsating kind of headache felt on one side of the head. Dizziness usually precedes the onset of the migraine.
5. Certain medications like antidepressants, antihypertensive drugs, and sedatives make people dizzy.
6. Chronic alcoholism.
7. Postural Hypotension-A sudden drop in systolic blood pressure after sitting up or standing too quickly also results in a brief period of faintness and is known as orthostatic hypotension.
8. Low blood sugar levels or hypoglycemia leads to dizziness along with sweating and anxiety.
9. Neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease and Multiple sclerosis are also one of the causes.
10. In Serious conditions, like Cardiovascular disorders (Heart attack) or stroke, dizziness is experienced with other symptoms.
11. Iron deficiency anemia

Dizziness accompanied by other symptoms may be a sign of a serious medical condition and must be examined by the Doctor.

Depending upon the etiology, some cases of dizziness are preventable by maintaining good hydration and sugar levels. Ensure iron-rich diet. Avoid suddenly getting up from a lying position to avoid orthostatic hypotension. Do relaxation exercises to combat stress. Balance exercises and Epley’s maneuver help with dizziness associated with vertigo.

STAY INFORMED! STAY HEALTHY!

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