Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is one of the most common reasons adults visit their doctors, according to the Mayo Clinic. As disabling as it may be for those who suffer from it, dizziness is rarely a sign of a life-threatening medical condition. A variety of treatments are available, most of which are effective. These treatments vary, however, depending on the symptoms and causes of the dizziness.
Vertigo
The most common type of dizziness, according to the Mayo Clinic, is vertigo. This condition creates a false sense of spinning or motion; when you sit up or move around, the condition may become worse. When severe, vertigo can result in lightheadedness and cause nausea and vomiting. Healthcommunites, a website developed by physicians, states that there are a number of causes.
One is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). Upon an immediate change in the position of your head, such as sitting up or rolling over in bed, you immediately may experience a sudden but intense episode of vertigo. The Mayo Clinic explains that the exact causes of BPPV are not known, but are believed to be linked to head trauma or are a natural result of aging.
Sudden Drop In Blood Pressure
Lightheadedness occurs in those who suffer from a sudden drop in blood pressure. The Mayo Clinic and National Institutes of Health agree that the higher your blood pressure reading--especially the systolic (top) number--the greater your chances of suffering from lightheadedness or feeling faint. It usually occurs after standing up quickly.
Heart Problems
Heart problems, such as partially blocked arteries, abnormal heart rhythms, a decrease in blood volume, stroke, heart attack and disease of the heart muscle, also can lead to lightheadedness. This is caused by an inadequate amount of blood being pumped from your heart.
The National Institutes of Health notes that if you have a heart-related condition, your symptoms also might include chest pain, loss of speech, racing heart and a change in vision.
Inner Ear Problems
The vestibular labyrinth is the organ of balance within your inner ear, the Mayo Clinic notes. This organ contains various structures, such as semicircular canals, which in turn contain fluid and hair-like sensors that monitor the rotation of your head. The semicircular canals also contain tiny particles that are attached to sensors. These sensors are responsible for helping detect gravity and back-and-forth motion. If this system malfunctions, dizziness may result.
