Dizzy spells are episodes of feeling lightheaded or faint. An individual who has a dizzy spell may feel as if he is close to fainting or feel an overwhelming weakness. Some people also feel confused or nauseated when they have dizzy spells; some even vomit. During a spell, a person may have the sensation that the room is spinning or have difficulty talking, concentrating, walking, or performing ordinary tasks. These spells may be caused by a wide range of issues, including blood pressure changes, heart problems, stroke, tumors, and migraines; even medications and acute infections may cause them.
Though dizzy spells are common, they can be difficult to describe. This is because they can include a wide range of symptoms. For example, one person may describe a dizzy spell as a feeling of lightheadedness, while another may say he feels as if the room is spinning. Some people may describe the spells as a feeling of being overly warm while also dealing with overwhelming weakness. An individual may shake or tremble when he’s feeling dizzy, or may feel nauseated; the individual’s nausea may sometimes progress to vomiting as well.
Numerous illnesses and conditions are associated with dizziness, and it can be difficult for a doctor to provide an accurate diagnosis if it is a patient’s only symptom. Among the issues that may cause a dizzy spell are infections, low blood sugar, dehydration, and inadequate oxygen intake. Anemia, internal bleeding, and even panic disorder may cause dizziness as well. Additionally, a person may have episodes of dizziness because of a heart condition, stroke, tumor, or migraine.
Age-related changes and illnesses may contribute to episodes of dizziness in some cases. For example, an age-related reduced tolerance for physical exertion may cause dizziness. Age-related circulatory problems and hardened arteries may also lead to episodes of dizziness. Additionally, nerve dysfunction that is related to other age-related conditions may cause or contribute to dizzy spells.
Since dizzy spells can develop as a sign of a life-threatening condition, health experts often advise patients to seek medical attention after an initial, unexplained dizzy spell. If a person has a history of dizzy episodes, but they get worse, he may do well to seek a doctor’s evaluation as well. Likewise, dizziness that occurs after a person starts taking a new medication or in conjunction with chest or arm pain warrants medical attention. If an individual has trouble walking or standing after an episode, this is also an indication of a serious condition that requires medical evaluation.