Lightheadedness
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Lightheadedness | |
---|---|
Other names | Pre-syncope |
Specialty | |
Risk factors | Poor dietary or diabetic management, genetic predisposition to cardiac arrythmia |
Diagnostic method | Based on symptoms. Some thrombotic pre-syncope may be indicated by a troponin serum level. |
Treatment | Dependent 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
Keeping a sense of balance requires the
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
Many people, especially as they age, experience lightheadedness if they arise too quickly from a lying or seated position. Lightheadedness often accompanies the
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
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
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Vasovagal response
- Clouding of consciousness
- Greyout
References
- ^ "Chapter 14: Evaluation of the Dizzy Patient". Retrieved 2009-08-06.
- ISBN 978-0-7817-6562-6.