Kids can experience dizziness for a number of reasons, just like adults. It can be a temporary condition brought on by one amusement park ride too many, allergies, or not eating and drinking right. However, dizziness can also be an indication of more serious conditions. Consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Motion Sickness
For some children, dizziness can be brought on by car, boat or amusement park rides. The Encyclopedia of Children's Health notes that motion sickness occurs when the body is telling the brain that it's sitting still, but the eyes are telling the brain the body's in motion. The confusing messages can create the feeling of dizziness.
Dehydration
According to the Mayo Clinic, dizziness or lightheadedness can also be a sign of mild to moderate dehydration. It notes that thirst is not always a reliable gauge of whether the body needs more fluids, especially in children and older adults. If your child has dark yellow or amber-colored urine, that's a strong indicator they're suffering from dehydration and need more fluids.
Illness and Injury
A number of illnesses can bring on a dizzy sensation. The Encyclopedia of Children's Health reports that ear infections, allergies and nervous system disorders can make children feel dizzy. High blood pressure and low blood sugar can affect blood flow in the body, and these conditions may lead to dizziness. If your child suffers a fall or sports injury that involves the head, dizziness may be a sign of concussion. The Wrong Diagnosis website notes that anemia and anorexia nervosa can also cause feelings of dizziness. If your child suffers from migraine headaches, dizziness might come along with the pain.
Meniere's Disease
Meniere's disease is an inner ear disorder that can bring on a feeling of dizziness. The Mayo Clinic reports it's usually found in people in their 40s or 50s, but it can affect children, too. Meniere's disease is a chronic condition, but treatments are available to help relieve symptoms.
Irregular Heartbeat
In rare cases, dizziness can be a sign of an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia. The American Academy of Pediatrics' Healthy Children website notes that a true arrhythmia is not very common and pediatricians normally discover it during routine exams. However, if your child complains of a fast heartbeat when not exercising, feels dizzy and weak, or blacks out or faints, notify your doctor immediately.
