Dizziness is a very common condition across the United States. About 15 percent of people in Lexington will experience dizziness at least once this year. Most of the time it’s brief in nature and nothing to worry about; simply standing up too quickly can trigger feelings of unsteadiness. But if you’re experiencing regular bouts of dizziness, it’s best to make an appointment with an audiologist or ENT specialist in order to rule out anything serious.
What Causes Dizziness?
Dizziness is a blanket term used to describe any sensation of unsteadiness or imbalance. It is the result of your brain sensing movement that isn’t actually occurring. When this happens, you may experience some or all of the following symptoms of dizziness:
- Lightheadedness
- Vertigo
- Fainting
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Blurry vision
More serious symptoms, such as vomiting, double vision, shortness of breath, chest or back pain, neck stiffness, fever, difficulty walking, or trouble using your arms or legs are considered a medical emergency and require immediate attention.
There are many conditions that can cause dizziness. Common ones include low blood pressure, anemia, dehydration, hypertension, endocrine system disorders, cardiovascular conditions, viral and bacterial infections, head trauma, neurological disorders, hyperventilation, heat-related disorders, and side effects of certain medications.
How is My Dizziness Treated?
Chronic dizziness should never be taken lightly, especially if you’re older. About 40 percent of elderly people in Lexington experience episodes of dizziness; it’s particularly risky for people in that age group, increasing their risk of falling – a leading cause of death in those over the age of 80.
Treatment for your dizziness depends on the underlying cause. You’ll need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation in order to determine the reason for your unsteadiness. Solutions are varied and include the following:
- Medications (antihistamines, sedatives, antibiotics, steroids)
- Physical or occupational therapy
- Surgery
- Repositioning exercises
- Vestibular retraining programs
- Lifestyle modifications (such as reducing your sodium intake and quitting smoking)
While most cases of dizziness are not serious, it’s always best to seek the advice of a professional if you are experiencing repeat episodes. Your Lexington audiologist or ear, nose, and throat doctor can help figure out what’s wrong and find a solution that will keep you on your feet!