Dizziness is defined as feeling lightheaded, weak, or faint. This feeling may lead to the more abrupt vertigo, a sharp spinning sensation that usually doesn't last long. Dizziness is primarily caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure - which typically occurs after a big meal or from standing up too quickly. Common symptoms of dizziness include loss of balance, blurred vision, hearing loss, headaches, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, and rapid heart rate. There are several helpful things you can do in order to reduce dizziness. Keep reading to learn more.
Tips
These tips can help you halt dizziness and also prevent future spells.
Sit down
Taking a few minutes to sit on the edge of the bed when you first wake up can prevent early-morning dizziness, as one of the main causes of dizziness is a drop in blood pressure when standing up too quickly. Throughout the day, leaning against a chair or couch for a minute will also help.
Drink water
Dehydration is a primary cause of dizziness, so it is important to drink sufficient water throughout the day. Keep a reusable water bottle around, but don't overdo it: drinking too much water at once can also cause vertigo.
Avoid alcohol
Things like alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine can affect circulation, so it is important to avoid them or consume them in moderation.
Practice breathing techniques
Practicing breathing exercises in the morning can help regulate your body and prevent dizziness.
Sleep
Getting adequate sleep is crucial to prevent dizziness and maintain high energy levels throughout the day. The average adult needs around eight hours of sleep every night. Taking a warm bath, reading, and meditating before bed are all helpful tips to getting a good night's sleep.
Don't skip meals
Skipping meals causes a drop in blood sugar levels, which can lead to dizziness, headaches, falling, and fainting.
Cut out sugary drinks
It is recommended to avoid drinking sodas and sugary drinks during meals, because they can cause dizziness by causing blood sugar levels to spike and then sharply drop.
Take iron supplements
Taking iron supplements can be helpful for preventing dizziness caused by anemia.
Consume ginger
Ginger is an excellent herbal remedy for dizziness, vertigo, and nausea, which it can prevent without the side effects of OTC anti-nausea medication (e.g., excessive sleepiness). Chewing on fresh ginger, drinking ginger tea, or taking a ginger supplement are all helpful.
Try ginkgo
This herb is beneficial for boosting circulation and preventing dizziness.
Dizziness can be surprising, but typically does not last long. Dehydration, low blood pressure, and low blood sugar are all common causes of dizziness. Dizziness is not usually a cause for concern, but if it is accompanied by slurred speech or loss of bladder control, you should seek immediate medical attention. Drinking plenty of water, trying herbal remedies - like ginger and ginkgo - and avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks can be beneficial for reducing dizziness. Read more about how to prevent dizziness.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2012). Dizziness Causes. Retrieved November 14, 2014, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dizziness/basics/causes/con-20023004
- National Health Service UK. (2013). Dizziness (lightheadedness). Retrieved November 14, 2014, from http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dizziness/pages/introduction.aspx