Lightheadedness

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Lightheadedness
Other namesPre-syncope
Specialty
Risk factorsPoor dietary or diabetic management, genetic predisposition to cardiac arrythmia
Diagnostic methodBased on symptoms. Some thrombotic pre-syncope may be indicated by a troponin serum level.
TreatmentDependent on the cause. May include IV fluids, Ringer's Lactate, glucose replacement therapy, thrombolytics, or simply sitting down/resting.

Lightheadedness is a common and typically unpleasant sensation of

vertigo
). Most causes of lightheadedness are not serious and either cure themselves quickly or are easily treated.

Keeping a sense of balance requires the

eyes, the nervous system, and the inner ears. If the brain is unable to process these signals, such as when the messages are contradictory, or if the sensory systems
are improperly functioning, an individual may experience lightheadedness or dizziness.

Lightheadedness is very similar to pre-syncope. Pre-syncope is the immediate stage before syncope (fainting), particularly in cases of temporary visual field loss (i.e. vision getting "dark" or "closing in").[2]

Causes

Lightheadedness can be simply (and most commonly) an indication of a temporary shortage of

heart attack), respiratory problems such as pulmonary hypertension or pulmonary embolism, and also stroke, bleeding, and shock. If any of these serious disorders are present, the individual will usually have additional symptoms such as chest pain
, a feeling of a racing heart, loss of speech or a change in vision.

Many people, especially as they age, experience lightheadedness if they arise too quickly from a lying or seated position. Lightheadedness often accompanies the

allergies
. Dizziness could be provoked by the use of
tobacco products can cause lightheadedness for inexperienced users. Narcotic drugs, such as codeine
, can also cause lightheadedness.

Treatment

Treatment for lightheadedness depends on the cause or underlying problem. Treatment may include drinking plenty of water or other fluids (unless the lightheadedness is the result of

. They should try eating something sugary and lying down or sitting and reducing the elevation of the head relative to the body (for example, by positioning the head between the knees).

Other simple remedies include avoiding sudden changes in posture when sitting or lying and avoiding bright lights.

Several essential electrolytes are excreted when the body perspires. When people experience unusual or extreme heat for a long time, sweating excessively can cause a lack of some electrolytes, which in turn can cause lightheadedness.

See also

References

  1. ^ "Chapter 14: Evaluation of the Dizzy Patient". Retrieved 2009-08-06.
  2. .

External links