Dizziness

You may have felt dizzy at some point, perhaps after standing up too fast. This can cause lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or the room spinning sensation. Dizziness is often linked to low blood pressure and can even result in fainting.

This is a common condition, and it usually passes on its own without complications.

If you experience occasional dizzy spells, it is generally not a cause for concern. However, if the dizziness is intense, causes you to lose your balance, or becomes frequent, it is advisable to seek medical attention. This is because recurrent dizzy spells may indicate an underlying health issue.

Our doctors can help you if you are concerned about your symptoms.

The following symptoms characterize dizziness:

• Confusion
  
  
• Unsteadiness on your feet
  
  
• You may feel sick or be sick
  
  
• Giddiness
  
  
• Lightheadedness
  
  
• Feeling faint or fainting
  
  
• Feeling of floating

If you feel your surroundings are spinning, a condition known as vertigo, it is best to sit or lie down until the feeling passes. If the symptoms are persistent, it is recommended that you seek medical advice.

Many individuals may experience dizziness for various reasons. Certain people may be more prone to dizziness due to medications, such as antidepressants (which will be further discussed below), or other medical conditions.

If you are concerned about dizzy spells or notice any other symptoms, it would be best to consult with a doctor.

Consulting a doctor is advisable if you suspect an underlying issue causing your dizziness. Physicians can assess the intensity and frequency of your symptoms to determine their root cause.

It's important to seek medical attention if:

• You frequently experience dizziness.
  
  
• The dizziness is prolonged.
  
  
• There's an impact on your hearing, like a ringing sensation in your ears.

You should urgently consult a doctor if:

• You experience double or blurred vision.
  
  
• You feel numbness in your face, arms, or legs.

If concerns about your bouts of dizziness arise, a doctor can provide clarity and assurance and diagnose the underlying cause.

Labyrinthitis

An inner ear disorder where the nerve-sensing head movement becomes inflamed, leading to dizziness.

Hypotension

A decrease in blood pressure can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly. It's typically not a cause for concern.

Hypertension

Known as high blood pressure, dizziness might be an early indicator, even though other symptoms might be sparse.

Heart Attack

Dizziness, coupled with other heart attack symptoms, requires immediate emergency intervention.

Hypoglycaemia

A drop in blood sugar can induce dizziness, especially in diabetics.

Ear Infection

Otitis media, an infection of the middle ear, can cause dizziness and possible temporary hearing loss.

Other potential causes for dizziness include:

• Migraines
  
  
• Problems with the inner ear
  
  
• Motion sickness
  
  
• Dehydration
  
  
• Hypothermia
  
  
• Heat fatigue
  
  
• Vertigo
  
  
• Strokes
  
  
• Inborn heart conditions
  
  
• Concussions
  
  
• Panic episodes
  
  
• Toxic shock syndrome
  
  
• Carbon monoxide exposure
  
  
• Emotional distress and anxiety
  
  
• Anaemia
  
  
• Misuse of alcohol or drugs
  
  
• Eye-related issues like adapting to new eyewear
  
  
• Various conditions lead to decreased blood pressure

For women above 50, menopause can sometimes lead to dizziness due to hormonal changes.

Most bouts of dizziness will typically resolve by themselves. Nonetheless, there are measures you can take to expedite recovery:

• Lie down and steer clear of abrupt actions.
  
  
• Take a break until you're feeling better.
  
  
• Stay hydrated by drinking ample fluids, preferably water. It's advisable to avoid substances like caffeine or alcohol that can exacerbate dizziness.

Refraining from driving or engaging in potentially hazardous activities while experiencing dizziness is crucial.

It is possible that the medication you have recently started taking for a pre-existing condition could be causing dizziness. Medications that are commonly known to cause this symptom include:

• Anti-seizure medicines
  
  
• High blood pressure medication
  
  
• Antidepressants
  
  
• Tranquillizers
  
  
• Sedatives

If you experience episodes of dizziness while taking any of these medications, or if you have been taking them for a while and are now experiencing dizziness, it is important to discuss this with a doctor. They can determine if the medication is the cause of the problem and provide advice on a suitable alternative.

With Mobi Doctor, you can conveniently consult a physician online using any device, whether at home, the office, or on the move. Through video consultations, they can address your dizziness concerns, evaluate your symptoms, and recommend appropriate treatment to expedite your recovery and return to normalcy.

You can schedule an appointment to discuss your dizziness at the most convenient time, as our doctors are accessible seven days a week. If further assessment or treatment is required, our physicians can also provide referrals to specialists.