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Time Business News
18-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Understanding Dizziness: Causes, Types, and Treatment
Dizziness is a sensation that many people experience but often misunderstand. It may feel like the room is spinning, like you're going to faint, or as if you've suddenly lost your balance. While most episodes are short-lived and harmless, recurring dizziness can be a sign of an underlying issue that needs attention. This guide breaks down what causes dizziness, the types, how it affects daily life, and what you can do about it. Dizziness is not a single condition but a symptom that can result from various health issues. People often describe it as feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or as if the environment is moving around them. It may also come with symptoms like blurred vision, nausea, or headaches. In most cases, dizziness is a sign that your brain isn't receiving the right signals from the eyes, ears, muscles, or nervous system. These mixed signals can cause confusion in your brain, resulting in a dizzy feeling. Dizziness can have many causes, including: Low blood pressure : A sudden drop can make you feel faint or woozy. : A sudden drop can make you feel faint or woozy. Dehydration : Not having enough fluids in your system affects blood flow. : Not having enough fluids in your system affects blood flow. Ear infections or disorders : The inner ear helps control balance. : The inner ear helps control balance. Certain medications : Side effects from prescriptions, especially those for blood pressure or anxiety, can include dizziness. : Side effects from prescriptions, especially those for blood pressure or anxiety, can include dizziness. Anxiety or stress : Emotional responses can cause dizziness due to rapid breathing and changes in circulation. : Emotional responses can cause dizziness due to rapid breathing and changes in circulation. Low blood sugar: Skipping meals or poor nutrition can lead to dizziness. Understanding the type of dizziness you're experiencing can help with diagnosis and treatment. Here are some of the most common types: Vertigo gives you the feeling that you or your surroundings are spinning. It's often related to inner ear problems, such as an infection or fluid imbalance. Conditions like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) or Ménière's disease can trigger these symptoms. This type feels like you're about to faint. It's commonly caused by standing up too fast, dehydration, or skipping meals. It usually passes quickly but can be alarming. A sense of unsteadiness or loss of balance, often seen in older adults or people with neurological issues. This may make walking or moving around difficult. Dizziness triggered by movement, such as riding in a car or boat, can be linked to motion sickness or problems with the vestibular system. Frequent dizziness can be more than uncomfortable—it can interfere with work, driving, and everyday activities. It's also a major risk factor for falls, particularly among the elderly. Many people start avoiding activities they once enjoyed because they fear becoming dizzy in public or while alone. In severe cases, dizziness can affect mental health, increasing anxiety and fear. That's why it's essential to understand the cause and seek treatment if the condition becomes disruptive. While some causes of dizziness require medical treatment, others can be managed with simple lifestyle adjustments. Here are some practical tips: Drink water regularly to stay hydrated. Avoid quick movements, especially when rising from bed or a chair. Eat balanced meals and don't skip food for long periods. Minimize alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you. Reduce screen time and avoid bright, flickering lights if they trigger dizziness. Rest in a quiet, dark room if symptoms begin suddenly. Use support like railings or canes if you feel unsteady. If home care doesn't help or dizziness occurs frequently, it's time to consult a healthcare provider. Depending on the cause, treatments may include: Medication : Anti-nausea or anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed. : Anti-nausea or anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed. Balance therapy : Vestibular rehabilitation exercises can train the brain to adapt to changes in balance. : Vestibular rehabilitation exercises can train the brain to adapt to changes in balance. Hearing or vision correction : Glasses or hearing aids may improve spatial awareness. : Glasses or hearing aids may improve spatial awareness. Treating underlying conditions: Managing high blood pressure, blood sugar, or ear infections can relieve dizziness. Always share a detailed symptom history with your doctor, including how often dizziness occurs, what you were doing beforehand, and any associated symptoms like nausea, headache, or vision changes. While most dizziness isn't life-threatening, you should seek immediate medical care if it comes with: Chest pain or shortness of breath Slurred speech or numbness Sudden loss of vision Head injury or unconsciousness Persistent vomiting Difficulty walking or confusion These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue such as a stroke, heart attack, or brain injury. Q: Can I prevent dizziness from happening in the first place? A: While not all causes are preventable, you can lower your risk by staying hydrated, eating regularly, avoiding excessive alcohol, and managing stress. Q: Is it safe to drive if I feel dizzy sometimes? A: If dizziness occurs while driving or frequently throughout the day, avoid operating a vehicle until you've spoken with your doctor. Q: Can dizziness be a sign of something serious? A: Yes, in some cases. If you experience dizziness along with neurological symptoms or chest pain, seek emergency care. Q: How long should dizziness last before seeing a doctor? A: Occasional, short episodes are common. If it lasts more than a few hours or occurs regularly, schedule a medical visit. Q: What can I do during a dizzy spell? A: Sit or lie down immediately. Keep your head still and close your eyes if needed. Avoid standing until the sensation passes. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Feeling sick while traveling? Here's what causes motion sickness and how to prevent it
Ever felt queasy on a winding mountain drive or dizzy during a boat ride? You're not alone. Motion sickness is the unwelcome travel companion that can turn an exciting journey into a miserable experience. It strikes when your brain gets mixed signals from your eyes, ears, and body confusing motion for danger. The result? Nausea, headaches, cold sweats, and an urgent wish to get off the ride. But don't cancel your travel plans just yet. With the right know-how and a few smart tricks, you can keep motion sickness at bay and enjoy your adventure whether you are soaring, sailing, or road-tripping. What is motion sickness Motion sickness is a widespread condition that happens when your brain gets contradictory messages about motion and position from your eyes, inner ears, muscles, and joints. It generally hits when you're stationary but being transported by an outside force—like traveling by car, flying on an airplane, or riding on a boat. Some individuals may even suffer from virtual motion sickness (VMS) during video game play or from the use of virtual reality equipment. While it is not dangerous, motion sickness is very uncomfortable and can intrude on your travel or recreation quality. Causes of motion sickness Motion sickness is caused by a conflict between sensory inputs. For instance, while driving in a vehicle: Your eyes perceive moving surroundings, which triggers a message to the brain that you're moving. At the same time, your inner ear and body might detect stationary status if you're sitting and not actually moving. This conflict between senses leads your brain to get it wrong, and that leads to nausea and other bodily reactions. Common causes include: You can get motion sickness on: Car, bus, or train travel Flights Boat cruises or trips Amusement park rides Playing video or virtual reality games Symptoms of motion sickness Symptoms of motion sickness are mild to severe and may develop gradually or abruptly. These include: Nausea and vomiting Dizziness or loss of balance Headache Cold sweats Fatigue or drowsiness Increased breathing rate or feeling the need for more air Excessive salivation Irritability in children Who gets motion sickness most often Motion sickness is not a certainty for anyone, but there are some people who are more prone to it. Risk factors are: Children aged 2-12 years People with a family history of motion sickness Women with menstruation or pregnancy People with migraine disorders or those with Parkinson's disease, as well as inner ear illnesses such as BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo) When to worry about motion sickness symptoms Motion sickness is temporary and harmless in most cases, but frequent or severe symptoms can lead to: Dehydration due to excessive vomiting Low blood pressure (hypotension) Discomfort and distress even after stopping the motion If they happen without any movement or last longer than expected, it might be a sign of an underlying condition and needs to be checked by a healthcare professional. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo How is motion sickness diagnosed There is no test for motion sickness. Your doctor will normally: Take an in-depth medical history Ask questions about symptoms and causative factors Do a physical exam, including tests for inner ear or balance problems Ways to prevent motion sickness while traveling While motion sickness can't always be avoided, numerous easy measures can minimize symptoms or bring relief: Natural remedies and lifestyle changes: Fresh air: Open windows or utilize vents to maximize airflow. Visual concentration: Keep eyes on the horizon or stationary objects far away. Do not read or watch screens. Rest and relax: Lean back and shut your eyes. Ginger tea or candies: Calm the nausea. Peppermint: Mints or tea soothe the stomach. Wristbands and glasses: Others find relief through acupressure bands or motion sickness goggles. Controlling virtual motion sickness If symptoms are due to VR or gaming, the following may help: Take frequent breaks Shorten playtime Adjust display settings to minimize screen flicker and delay Can motion sickness be prevented You may not always avoid motion sickness, but proper planning can significantly reduce your chances. Seating advice for various means of transport: Car: Ride in the front passenger seat Plane: Sit behind the wing Train: Face forward with a window seat Boat: Remain in the middle of the ship, preferably on the top or bottom deck Cruise ship: Reserve cabins mid-ship and low to the waterline Prevention tips before travel: Eat a light, plain meal beforehand (avoid greasy and heavy foods) Drink plenty of water Avoid smoking and alcohol Do not travel on an absolutely empty stomach, which could worsen symptoms When should you seek a doctor Visit a doctor if: Symptoms are persistent when at rest You have frequent nausea or vomiting You are showing signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dark-colored urine, or dizziness. Also Read | Shocking Warning! Bread, potatoes, and cereal may contain cadmium linked to cancer, high BP, and other risks especially for children
