Lightheadedness

Lightheadedness
Synonyms	Dizziness, presyncope
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Feeling faint, dizziness, nausea, sweating, blurred vision
Complications	Syncope, falls, injury
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Short-term
Types	N/A
Causes	Dehydration, hypotension, hypoglycemia, anemia, anxiety, hyperventilation, medications
Risks	Elderly, pregnancy, heart disease, diabetes
Diagnosis	Medical history, physical examination, blood tests, ECG
Differential diagnosis	Vertigo, orthostatic hypotension, seizure, stroke
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Rehydration, rest, medication adjustment, counseling
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Lightheadedness is a common and typically unpleasant sensation of dizziness or a feeling that one may faint. The sensation of lightheadedness can be short-lived, prolonged, or, rarely, recurring. In addition to dizziness, the individual may feel as though his or her head is weightless. The individual may also feel as though the room is "spinning" or moving. Lightheadedness often occurs when an individual quickly stands up. This is known as orthostatic hypotension.

Causes

Lightheadedness can be caused by various conditions, often related to issues with the cardiovascular system, the nervous system, or the inner ear. Some common causes include:

• Dehydration
• Hyperventilation
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Anemia
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Inner ear infection

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lightheadedness involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. The doctor may also order certain tests, such as:

• Blood tests
• Electrocardiogram
• Echocardiogram
• MRI
• CT scan

Treatment

Treatment for lightheadedness depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

• Rehydration
• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Surgery

See also

• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Fainting