Speak Up About Dizziness
Dizziness may feel like:
- Light-headedness
- Vertigo or spinning
- Rocking or swaying
- Being unsteady or off-balance
- Weak in the knees
Causes of dizziness include:
- Medications
- Postural hypotension
- Dehydration
- Low blood sugar
- Vision problems
- Inner ear problems
- Anxiety
When you are dizzy:
- Do not drive a car.
- Sit or lie down immediately.
- Use a cane for stability, if needed.
Suggestions
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about medications that may cause dizziness.
Move your arms and tighten your thigh muscles,m then slowly get up after lying in bed or sitting in a chair. Ask your healthcare provider to test your blood pressure lying down and standing up.
Avoid dehydration: drink 6-8 glasses of fluids including water each day or as directed by your healthcare provider.
Rest in a cool place and drink water or a sports drink if your dizziness is caused by overheating or dehydration.
Eat a healthy diet: 3 balanced meals and snacks in between.
Keep regular sleep hours: 7-8 hours of sleep every night and avoid stress.
Avoid using caffeine, alcohol, salt, and tobacco. Excessive use of these substances can worsen your dizziness.
Resources
8.5×11 handout on managing dizziness.
