Many of us become dizzy from time to time. You stand up too quickly and feel dizzy. You skip lunch and feel lightheaded by late afternoon.
Sometimes, the lightheadedness may be so strong you feel like you’re going to pass out. Dizziness is a catch-all term used to describe many feelings of being lightheaded or off-balance. Usually, it’s a minor issue that resolves when you lie down. However, if you have other symptoms that accompany the dizziness, it may be a sign of something more serious.
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Causes of Dizziness
Sometimes, dizziness is used to describe vertigo, a motion and balance issue usually caused by an inner ear disorder. Vertigo is a feeling that you’re standing still but the world around you is spinning or tilting. Both vertigo and dizziness can cause nausea or vomiting when severe.
Occasional dizziness can be caused by:
A quick drop in blood pressure (like when you stand up too fast)
Illness or infection
Anemia (low iron)
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How to Tell When Dizziness May Be Serious
Dizziness alone is often not much cause for concern, especially if it passes after a few moments. However, if you experience additional symptoms or fainting, you should talk to your doctor.
If you experience vomiting, double vision, or trouble using your arms or legs, you should get immediate medical attention. In fact, lightheadedness, along with shortness of breath, back pain, and fainting, are more common signs of heart attack in women than chest pain.
Other signs that your dizziness might be a sign of something more serious:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Trouble walking
- Stiff neck
- Signs of a stroke
Leading a healthy lifestyle, limiting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can help lessen the feeling of dizziness and help prevent more serious problems. Make sure you talk with your doctor if you regularly experience dizziness and to share exactly what the sensation feels like. The more detail your doctor has, the better he or she will be able to detect any underlying issue.
About Ear Nose and Throat
Ear, Nose, and Throat Services at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside ranks among the best nationally on U.S. News & World Report’s listings. Our team includes board-certified physicians and highly skilled speech-language pathologists and audiologists. We treat a variety of ear, nose, and throat conditions in both children and adults and provide both surgical and non-surgical options. Our doctors also take part in research and clinical trials. We have locations throughout western Pennsylvania for patient convenience.