Dizziness
Alternate Names : Dizzy, Lightheadedness
Dizziness is a term that is used to describe a wide range of symptoms. These
include lightheadedness, faintness,
confusion, spinning, and feeling giddy or unsteady.
What is going on in the body?
Dizziness is not a very precise term. When someone complains of dizziness, the
healthcare provider will need to know what a person means. Many people use the
term dizzy to describe a feeling that occurs right before passing out. Others
use it to describe feeling as though they or the room is spinning.
Causes range from mild to serious.
What are the causes and risks of the symptom?
Common conditions that may cause dizziness include the following:
aging, which may
cause a mild sensation of dizziness during activity
anemia, or a low red
blood cell count
being overheated, which commonly makes people feel "woozy" or may even cause them to pass
out
congestive heart
failure, a condition in which a weakened heart is unable to pump
enough blood to the brain
drug use or withdrawal, such as alcohol withdrawal or
marijuana use
fear, anxiety, or emotional distress
inner ear problems, such as labyrinthitis or Meniere's
disease, which can cause vertigo, a type of dizziness in which a person feels that the room is spinning
low blood pressure
low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia
low oxygen or blood flow to the brain, which may happen during a
stroke
medications used to treat high blood pressure, coronary
artery disease, seizures, infections, and anxiety
nervous system disorders, such as seizures, Parkinson's
disease, multiple sclerosis, or a brain tumor
psychological conditions, such as depression and anxiety
Other causes are possible as well. In some cases, no cause can be found.
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