What is meant by 'dizziness'?

Dizziness is often also commonly referred to as being ‘lightheaded’, ‘woozy’, or ‘off-balance’.

Dizziness is common and usually a natural response to many types of stimulation. Occasional dizziness isn’t something to worry about. However, it is recommended to speak to a doctor immediately if you are experiencing repeated episodes of dizziness for no obvious reason or for a prolonged amount of time.

Some forms of dizziness include:

Vertigo: Vertigo and disequilibrium; may both cause a feeling of dizziness, but these two terms describe distinct sensations. Vertigo usually presents as a spinning sensation, like the room is moving. It may also feel like motion sickness.

Disequilibrium: is a loss of balance or equilibrium.

Try these natural options for dizziness

Certain foods and nutrients may help relieve symptoms of dizziness.

Drink adequate amounts of water:

Dehydration is a common cause of dizziness, ensure you are drinking enough water for your activity level to stay hydrated. Try adding electrolytes to water too. Try Sports Electrolyte Fix Liquid (100ml)

Ginger:

Ginger may help relieve symptoms of motion sickness and dizziness[i]. Try Gimber Organic Drink Concentrate (500ml)

Vitamin C:

Vitamin C can reduce vertigo in if you have Meniere’s disease. It also supports the immune system. Try Vitamin C 500mg + Zinc

Vitamin E:

Can help maintain the elasticity of your blood vessels. This can help prevent circulation problems. Try Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols, 90 caps)

Iron:

If your doctor thinks you have anaemia, they may encourage you to get more iron. Try Iron-C (60 capsules)

Gingko:

Ginkgo biloba is a Chinese herb known for resolving the symptoms of vertigo. It works by managing blood flow to the brain to relieve dizziness and balance issues[ii]. Try Ginkgo Biloba Drops

Essential Oils:

Some of the options available for managing vertigo include peppermint,

Ginger - Organic, lavender, and lemon essential oils.

Essential oils are inhaled through an infuser or diluted in a carrier oil before being applied topically. A person may have to experiment with a variety of oils to find the best one to treat their vertigo symptoms.

Other common causes of dizziness: include a migraine attack or excess alcohol. Dizziness can also result from a problem in the inner ear, which is the area that senses movement and regulates balance. These problems include hearing loss.

Dizziness may be linked to certain medications: muscle relaxants, antiepileptic drugs, antihistamines and blood pressure medications.

Symptoms:

People who are dizzy may experience various sensations, including light-headedness or faintness, a false sense of spinning, unsteadiness, a loss of balance and a feeling of floating.

Acupressure:

Acupressure applies the same concepts as acupuncture, but it is without the needles. The goal of acupressure is to promote wellness and relaxation. It can help manage vertigo by stimulating pressure points throughout the body.

Possible causes of dizziness:

Excessive exercise: Overexerting yourself may make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. It can also lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, which can both cause dizziness.

Heat exhaustion: If you’re in a hot environment and sweating excessively, you’re likely experiencing heat exhaustion. The condition may make you feel dizzy, thirsty, and weak.

Decrease in blood volume: Low blood volume can result from bleeding or dehydration. It can cause dizziness, fatigue, and low blood pressure. Learn more about the relationship between dehydration and blood pressure.

Anxiety disorders: Dizziness may be related to anxiety with no other physical causes. You may have repeated episodes of dizziness.

Anaemia: Anaemia is a low red blood cell count. Low levels of iron-rich haemoglobin in your red blood cells mean the cells can’t transport enough oxygen throughout the body. The lack of oxygen caused by anaemia may make you feel dizzy, tired, or short of breath.

Hypoglycaemia: Hypoglycaemia, or low blood sugar, can make you feel shaky, lightheaded, or hungry. Severe hypoglycaemia is a serious condition that can cause a seizure. Discover other symptoms associated with hypoglycaemia.

Carbon monoxide poisoning: If carbon monoxide fumes from cars, grills, or furnaces build up indoors, breathing them in can be fatal. Dizziness, headache, and vomiting are all symptoms.

Motion sickness: Traveling by car or boat or experiencing other types of motion can give you motion sickness. You may feel dizzy and nauseous.

Multiple sclerosis (MS): Multiple sclerosis (MS) damages the brain and spinal cord. It causes a range of symptoms that can include dizziness.

Parkinson’s disease: Dizziness is a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease, a neurological condition that causes shaking and balance issues. Dizziness may become more noticeable in later stages of Parkinson’s.

A sudden drop in blood pressure: Sudden low blood pressure may be caused by various medical conditions. It can lead to dizziness and falling, especially in older adults.

Cardiomyopathy: Here, heart muscles become rigid and weak and not able to pump adequate amounts of blood. Symptoms can include dizziness, fainting, and trouble breathing.

Heart attack: While chest pain is the most common indicator of a heart attack, dizziness or light-headedness can also be symptoms. They occur if there’s not enough blood reaching your brain.

Arrhythmia: Arrhythmia occurs when the heart beats at an atypical pace. This may result in dizziness, light-headedness, or shortness of breath.

Circulation problems: Heart conditions can result in circulation problems, where your heart is unable to pump enough blood; this can cause you to feel dizzy.

Infections: Viral infections, such as the flu or a cold, may also cause you to feel dizzy or lightheaded. These infections may be associated with dehydration as well.

Ear infection: An ear infection may lead to inflammation in your inner ear, causing dizziness and balance troubles. Ear infections are associated with both bacterial and viral causes.

Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis: Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuritis occur when specific nerves in your inner ear become inflamed. Triggers often include viral infections, but they can vary. Bacterial infections are more common in people with labyrinthitis than in people with vestibular neuritis.