Symptoms of dizziness and confusion are prevalent in many disease processes. Potential causes for reduced coordination, sensory loss and dementia include hormonal imbalance, injury and any condition that affects the brain or peripheral nervous system. The presence of dizziness and confusion indicate the need for a medical evaluation as an emergency for sudden onset of symptoms, or a routine check for chronic symptoms.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas produced by burning combustible fuels such as gas, wood and other petroleum products. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include dizziness, confusion, a dull headache and loss of consciousness. A blood sample to check for the presence of carbon monoxide will confirm the diagnosis. It is urgent to get into fresh air at the first signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. The fumes become fatal quickly without fresh oxygen. Carbon monoxide poisoning requires immediate medical care.
Heat Stroke
A heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that presents with symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, headache, seizure and a rapid heartbeat. The body normally compensates for heat and cools the body with sweating and heat loss through the skin. When extreme heat and high humidity is more than the body's natural cooling system can handle, the internal temperature rises to potentially harmful levels. Immediate treatment for a heat stroke includes moving the person indoors to a cooler environment, removing clothing and applying cool water to the skin while waiting for emergency medical help to arrive.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a reduced production of thyroid hormones, which slows vital bodily functions, according to Merck Manuals. The reduced hormone level can cause symptoms of confusion, dizziness, fatigue and weight loss in older people. Younger adults with hypothyroidism experience more symptoms related to weight gain, cold intolerance and muscle cramps. Diagnostic testing includes blood tests to determine the thyroid-stimulating hormone level and a physical examination to palpate or feel the thyroid gland.
Transient Ischemic Attack
A transient ischemic attack, or TIA, is a brief interruption of the blood supply to a part of the brain that causes symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, visual disturbances, one-sided numbness of the body, and loss of coordination. The symptoms are similar to those experienced during a stroke, but they are brief. Since it is impossible to determine if the symptoms indicate a TIA or an acute stroke, it is important to obtain emergency medical evaluation within 60 minutes for optimal therapy. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke reports that about 1/3 of the people who have a TIA will eventually have an acute stroke.
