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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
Health Line
01-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
How to Stop Vertigo Naturally: 10 Home Remedies
Key Takeaways You may be able to relieve vertigo by performing certain maneuvers or exercises. These include the Epley maneuver, the half somersault maneuver, and the Brandt-Daroff exercise. Find more information on each of these in this article. Quality sleep, ginkgo biloba supplements, and stress management techniques (like deep breathing and meditation) may also help manage vertigo naturally. Vertigo is a feeling of movement, usually spinning, when you aren't moving. It may feel like the room around you is spinning. It's caused by your senses telling your brain that your body is off balance, even though it isn't. Depending on the cause, it may happen after turning your head or looking down or in response to another trigger, such as an illness. Vertigo is a symptom of an underlying condition, not a diagnosis. It can result from several different causes. Some types of vertigo occur only once, and some continue to recur until the underlying condition is found. What can trigger vertigo? Though vertigo can result from various balance disorders, the most common cause is benign positional paroxysmal vertigo (BPPV). BPPV happens when calcium deposits build up in your inner ear, which navigates your sense of balance. Other causes can include: vestibular neuritis, or inflammation of the vestibular nerve, often due to a viral illness head or neck injuries labyrinthitis, or inflammation in the inner ear Meniere's disease Mal de Debarquement syndrome, a rare and prolonged disorder that can occur after passive motion like sea travel vestibular migraine Some causes, like a head or neck injury, may require medical attention, while you can resolve other types, like BPPV, at home. Vertigo that results from an illness may go away on its own with rest. If you have vertigo, some home remedies and maneuvers you can do yourself may help. Epley maneuver Research indicates that the Epley maneuver is effective for people with BPPV. You can perform the maneuver at home by following this procedure: Start by sitting upright on a flat surface, with a pillow behind you and your legs outstretched. Turn your head 45 degrees to the right. With your head still titled, quickly recline with your head on the pillow. Stay in this position for at least 30 seconds. Slowly turn your head to the left, a full 90 degrees, without lifting your neck. Engage your whole body, turning it to the left so you are completely on your left side. Slowly return to your original position, looking forward and sitting straight up. You may also have someone assist you with the Epley maneuver by guiding your head according to the steps. You can repeat it three times in a row, and you may feel dizzy during each movement. Half somersault maneuver The half-somersault maneuver is another strategy for people with BPPV. Research suggests that it may work as well as the Epley maneuver, but while performing it, people typically experience less dizziness than with the Epley maneuver. This may make it easier to perform on your own. To do this maneuver, you must know which ear canal has the displaced calcium particles. If you cannot tell by moving your head, you can use the Dix-Hallpike maneuver to determine which ear is affected. That is the direction you will turn when performing the half-somersault maneuver. After each step, hold yourself still until the sensation of vertigo passes or for about 30 seconds. Kneel on the floor and tilt your head straight upward quickly until you are looking straight up at the ceiling. Then, place your head on the floor upside down like you are preparing to do a somersault. Tuck your chin so your head touches the floor near the back of the head rather than near the forehead. Slowly turn your head to face your right or left elbow (whichever movement has caused vertigo). Keep your elbow in view. You will keep your head turned in this direction for the rest of the exercise. Keep your head turned toward your elbow, and quickly raise your head to shoulder level so that it is at a 45-degree angle to the floor. Quickly raise your head to the upright position, keeping it turned toward your shoulder in the same direction. Hold this position until the vertigo passes, and then slowly sit upright. Rest for about 15 minutes in an upright position. Then, tilt your head up and down. If you don't have vertigo, do not repeat the maneuver. If you still feel some vertigo when making that movement, you can repeat the maneuver. Semont-Toupet maneuver The Semont-Toupet maneuver is a similar set of movements you can perform at home to treat vertigo. This maneuver is less well-known, but some claim it is similarly effective. The Semont-Toupet maneuver involves movements similar to the Epley Maneuver but requires less neck flexibility. Start by sitting upright on a flat surface, with a pillow behind you and your legs outstretched. Lie down, turn to your right, and look to your left side, looking upward. Quickly sit up and turn to your left side, keeping your head facing to your left. You will now be looking down toward the ground. Slowly return to your original position, looking forward and sitting straight up. Brandt-Daroff exercise The Brandt-Daroff exercise may also be easier to perform independently, but you shouldn't perform it unless you are in a safe place and won't be driving for a while because it may increase dizziness for a short time. Research suggests it isn't as effective as the Epley maneuver but may help resolve vertigo in some people with BPPV. Start by sitting on a flat surface, with your legs dangling as they would from a chair. Turn your head as far as you can to the left side, then lay your head and torso down on your right side. Your legs should not move. Stay here for at least 30 seconds. Sit up and turn your head back to the center position. Repeat the exercise on the opposite side by turning your head as far as you can to the right side, then lying down on your left side. You can do this exercise in a set of 5 repetitions and repeat it as often as 3 times a day, twice a week. Ginkgo biloba Researchers have studied ginkgo biloba for its effects on vertigo. It may be effective in treating certain kinds of vertigo, particularly vertigo caused by a buildup of plaque in the brain's arteries (cerebral arteriosclerosis). You can find ginkgo biloba extract in liquid or capsule form. Taking a moderate amount of ginkgo biloba each day may lessen your vertigo symptoms and make you feel more on balance. However, talk with a doctor before adding ginkgo biloba or other supplements to your diet, as it may interact with other medications, including blood thinners. Be sure to choose supplements that have undergone third-party testing to verify the quantity and quality of the ingredients. Adequate amount of sleep Not getting enough sleep may contribute to some causes of vertigo, such as migraine and balance disorders. If you're experiencing vertigo for the first time, it might result from stress or lack of sleep. Taking a nap may help improve your symptoms. You can also improve your sleep hygiene and get more restful sleep at night. Stress management Some conditions that cause vertigo, including Meniere's disease and migraine, may occur as a response to stress. Stress may also contribute to other factors, like insomnia or poor-quality sleep, that can trigger vertigo episodes. Having coping strategies to navigate stressful circumstances may help decrease your episodes of vertigo. Practicing meditation and deep breathing techniques is a good place to start. Some apps may also help you reduce stress and anxiety. Long-term stress isn't something you can simply breathe through, and often, the causes of stress aren't things you can cut out of your life. If those methods do not help enough, consider talking with a trained mental health professional who can help you learn and practice coping strategies that may help you manage your feelings in response to stress better. Yoga and physical therapy exercises Yoga can help reduce stress while increasing flexibility and balance. Vestibular rehabilitation therapy is a type of physical therapy performed in an outpatient setting to help your brain anticipate and compensate for the cause of your vertigo. This type of therapy may help people whose vertigo results from specific causes, such as: head injuries BPPV lesions in the central nervous system Some exercises you do at home can mimic this effect. Try simple yoga poses, such as Child's Pose and Corpse Pose, when you're feeling dizzy. Be cautious about anything that involves sudden bending forward, as that could make your symptoms temporarily feel stronger. Hydration Dehydration can sometimes cause vertigo. You may be able to stop vertigo by drinking water. You can also prevent vertigo from dehydration by drinking enough water each day. A good rule of thumb is to monitor the color of your urine and drink enough water so that it is close to clear. Monitor your water intake and drink more if you're in hot, humid conditions, or sweaty situations that might cause you to lose extra fluids. Plan to drink extra water when you tend to become dehydrated. Vitamin D A study suggests that not getting enough vitamin D can worsen symptoms in people with BPPV. You can have a doctor test your vitamin D levels to know if you need to adjust your diet or try a supplement. Takeaway Vertigo is not a diagnosis, but if it keeps occurring, it may be a symptom of an underlying condition. Treating vertigo at home using specific exercises and maneuvers may help. But if you continue to experience frequent vertigo, it's important to find out the cause. A primary care doctor might be able to diagnose you, or they may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist or neurologist for further evaluation.
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
