People who suffer from lightheadedness generally say they feel faint when they experience this type of dizziness. Lightheadedness occurs when the brain does not receive enough oxygen. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the brain, so problems that affect the blood usually cause of lightheadedness. Most of the time, lightheadedness is not serious and can be easily treated. If chest pain or mental confusion accompany lightheadedness, however, individuals should contact a doctor.
Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, is defined as blood sugar that is below 70 mg/dL. Three main causes of hypoglycemia exist. The first occurs when the body's store of glucose is depleted too quickly. The second involves stored glucose releasing too slowly. The final cause occurs when too much insulin gets into the bloodstream. Hypoglycemia is a common condition in those with diabetes, but can also occur as a result of excessive alcohol consumption, liver disease or tumors in the pancreas, according to Medline Plus.
Symptoms of hypoglycemia include lightheadedness, cold sweats, vision problems, increased heartbeat, headache, hunger, nervousness, weakness, tiredness and tingling in the skin. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to fainting, coma or a seizure. Low blood sugar can usually be successfully treated with a regular eating plan and carbohydrate control. Severe hypoglycemia may require glucose or glucagon injections. If hypoglycemia is caused by a pancreatic tumor, the tumor will be surgically removed.
Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when the body does not contain enough water to perform normal functions. Dehydration is usually caused by a combination of excessive fluid loss and inadequate fluid intake such as during times of intense diarrhea or vomiting and strenuous exercise. The condition can range in severity from mild to extreme, and symptoms vary based on severity. Mild to moderate dehydration can cause dry mouth, sleepiness, increased thirst, decreased urine output, decreased tear production, muscle weakness, headache and lightheadedness.
As dehydration becomes more severe, it can cause sunken eyes, extreme thirst, lack of sweating, shriveled skin, low blood pressure and rapid heartbeat, according to MayoClinic.com. Mild dehydration can be treated with increased water intake. More severe cases may require hospitalization with intravenous fluids and salts.
Arrhythmia
An arrhythmia is defined as an irregular heartbeat. The heart may beat too slowly, too quickly or abnormally, which means it skips a beat or has an extra beat, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Symptoms of an arrhythmia include heart palpitations, lightheadedness, shortness of breath and chest pain.
Minor arrhythmias are not serious and may be caused by alcohol abuse, smoking, caffeine, stress or intense exercise. Treatment is not usually required. Severe arrhythmias are usually a result of heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, or abnormal heart valve function and are more serious. Severe arrhythmias are treated with medications, pacemakers or surgery.
