What Should I do if I Am Feeling Dizzy?

If you are feeling dizzy, there are a number of things you can try. For instance, sitting or lying down will sometimes stop dizziness that may be the result of certain types of vertigo. If neither of those options is possible, sometimes just grabbing hold of something stationary, such as a wall or the back of a chair, may help improve your balance. In addition, some over-the-counter medications are specifically designed to help with dizziness. Dizziness is often a short-term sensation, and most of the time, it is not serious, but persistent problems with balance may signal an underlying health condition and should be treated by a physician.

Sometimes, dizziness occurs quickly and without warning. If this happens and you are unable to lie down, some experts recommend that you find something to focus your eyes on. It does not matter what it is, but on a subconscious level, focusing your eyes on a non-moving object may help you center yourself, which may make you feel more balanced.

Drinking water can sometimes help when you are feeling dizzy. Studies show that dizziness is often caused by dehydration, so drinking a glass of water may make the sensation pass or diminish its severity. Generally, drinking any type of fluid may help, but it is better to avoid drinks that contain alcohol or high amounts of sugar.

Some people find that changes in diet can sometimes help relieve dizziness, as some foods are believed to contribute to conditions that can cause the sensation. Cutting down on salt and caffeine might be a good idea, as well as lowering alcohol consumption. For some people, just a glass of wine may cause dizziness and, if you are one of those people, it may signal that you have a very low tolerance for alcohol.

In some cases, dizziness can be caused by certain types of medications, in particular blood pressure medication and tranquilizers. Some over-the-counter cold medicines can cause people to feel dizzy. If you believe your medicine is causing your dizziness, you should talk to a medical professional about changing to another prescription. Don’t stop using the medication without first discussing the issue with a healthcare provider.

Feeling dizzy does not usually signal a serious condition, but if you find that it happens to you frequently, you should probably consult with a medical professional. Common medical conditions that can sometimes cause dizziness include inner ear problems or infections and high blood pressure. Some more serious causes of dizziness include heart valve problems and bleeding in the brain.