Dizziness: What causes it and how to stop the symptoms

DIZZINESS is common but it can be debilitating, and sometimes it signals a more serious health problem. Here are the main causes of dizzy spells, how to treat them and when to speak to your GP.

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Dizziness can take on many forms, from lightheadedness or unsteadiness on your feet, to persistent vertigo.

Most people experience dizzy spells at some time in their lives, but the cause can often be more sinister than simple motion sickness or low blood pressure. Sometimes, it can be a sign of a more serious problem.

Here are the main causes of dizzy spells and how best to treat them.

Ear infection

An ear infection known as ­labyrinthitis causes nausea and vertigo, which makes it hard to carry out day-to-day tasks such as walking up or down stairs. It can also cause vomiting and temporary hearing loss in some cases.

If the GP diagnoses a viral infection, the only way to treat it is to control the symptoms with, for example, anti-nausea tablets. Antibiotics can be prescribed for a bacterial infection.

Meniere’s disease

Meniere’s disease is a condition of the inner ear that makes it feel like the room is spinning, combined with tinnitus, a ringing in the ear. Often pressure or fullness is also felt deep within the ear, and some hearing loss is common.

The disease is unpredictable – symptoms usually last two to three hours and can return in clusters or several times a week, or they may be separated by weeks, months or years.

Although there is no cure, there are many treatments to reduce and control the symptoms. They include a combination of balance exercises, medications, counselling and a low-salt diet.

Migraine

Studies show that about a third of migraine sufferers experience dizziness. The worst of the dizzy spells can occur during the headache, before the pain hits, or after it subsides.

There is no cure, but painkillers and anti-sickness medicines can help symptoms.

Dizziness can be a sign of a more serious illnessGETTY

Dizziness can be a sign of a more serious illness

Dizziness can be a sign of a more serious illness

Anxiety

An anxiety disorder can often cause dizziness, along with feelings of restlessness and worry. Heart palpitations are also common.

The NHS advises regular exercise and talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy, along with medication if necessary.

Low blood pressure

If you suffer from low blood pressure, you’re probably familiar with the lightheadedness you feel when you stand or sit up quickly. It’s more of an annoyance than anything to be concerned about, though see your GP if it worries you.

Of course, you shouldn’t do anything dangerous while you’re feeling lightheaded, such as driving or DIY.

Dizziness is often combined with hearing loss or tinnitusGETTY

Dizziness is often combined with hearing loss or tinnitus

Anaemia

Dizziness can be a sign of anaemia, especially when it’s combined with tiredness, pale skin and shortness of breath.

Pregnant women or those with heavy periods are most likely to have iron deficiency anaemia.

If your GP diagnoses you as anaemic via a blood test, iron supplements will be prescribed. Iron-rich foods include dark leafy vegetables, red meat, pulses, and fortified breads and cereals.

Clogged arteries

If dizziness is combined with double vision and a numb face, arms or legs, it could signal decreased blood flow to the brain, possibly from clogged arteries, known as atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis occurs when arteries become lined with plaque, and can eventually lead to life-threatening problems such as heart attacks and strokes, the NHS warns.

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