Why light headed and dizzy

Vertigo is an inner ear imbalance which makes you feel like the room is spinning, or you think you are doing the spinning. In either case you feel dizzy, and it seems to become worse when you move you head. It is also known as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, or BPPN.

BPPN is triggered by sudden movements of the head, and is often caused by a head injury, getting older, a tumor, or side effects from an antibiotic. Those who have frequent migraines can also be prone to episodes of vertigo.

It is best to have symptoms checked by a specialist like Weirton Medical Center to determine their underlying cause. Drink water or orange juice for an added kick of sugar and it should pass. Usually our nervous system controls our blood pressure when we move from a sitting position to standing up. Dizziness can be dangerous because it changes your sense of balance and can make you more likely to fall. One type of dizziness, called vertigo , causes the false sense that your surroundings are moving or spinning when in reality they are still.

Vertigo may cause you to feel like you are floating, tilting, swaying, or whirling. Seek immediate medical attention if you have lost a significant amount of blood and are feeling lightheaded. Also, lightheadedness accompanied by heart attack or stroke symptoms should be immediately treated. These symptoms include:. Do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital if you experience these symptoms.

Instead, call an ambulance. If your lightheadedness persists after a week or so or has resulted in an injury or nausea, see your physician. Also seek medical attention if your lightheadedness worsens over time. Lightheadedness that is not due to severe blood loss, heart attack, or stroke often subsides with time. Other treatments will address the underlying condition. Shop for water pills. Standing up slowly and avoiding sudden changes in posture can help to prevent lightheadedness.

Drink plenty of water, especially when you are ill or exercising intensely. Avoid bright lights and wear sunglasses when outdoors. Avoid substances known to cause lightheadedness, such as alcohol or tobacco. Antihistamines, sedatives, and antinausea medications may also cause lightheadedness.

If you tend to experience lightheadedness on a regular basis, here are some additional tips to help improve the quality of your life:. Learn about what causes stomach pains and dizziness and how to treat or manage your symptoms.

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Medically reviewed by Nancy Hammond, M. Causes Home remedies Treatment When to see a doctor Takeaway Lightheadedness is a feeling of faintness, dizziness, or being close to passing out. Share on Pinterest Causes of lightheadedness can include illnesses, anxiety, and dehydration. Home remedies. Share on Pinterest A person should drink lots of water in hot weather to reduce their risk of falling or fainting.

When to see a doctor. Share on Pinterest A person should seek emergency medical attention if chest pain accompanies lightheadedness or dizziness. Latest news Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help?