Dizziness (Dizzy) (cont.)
How is dizziness diagnosed?
The diagnosis of dizziness begins with the health care practitioner
evaluating
whether the complaint of dizziness refers to lightheadedness or vertigo. Further
evaluation continues once this distinction is made.
The key to the diagnosis of dizzyness is a thorough
history and physical examination. The health care practitioner will inquire as
to
what triggers the symptoms and what relieves the symptoms.
- Is it related to changing
positions quickly?
- Does it resolve on its own or does the patient have to do
something, like lie down to make it better?
A review of the patient's body functions may
pose questions about fever, vomiting,
diarrhea,
chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or
abnormal bleeding. The past medical history may be reviewed, including
medications the patient is currently taking.
A thorough physical examination will likely be done, this may include:
Vital signs: Taking the patient's blood pressure and pulse
rate lying down and standing (called orthostatic or postural vital signs) often
will indicate the fluid status of the body. In patients who are dehydrated or
bleeding, the vital signs may rise on changing position. However,
patients taking medications such as beta blockers will not generate in increased
pulse rate.
Tailored physical examination: Often, the the physical
examination is tailored to the patient based upon the information provided in
the patient's medical history. For example, a woman with a
heavy menstrual period may need a
pelvic examination, or a patient
with cough and shortness of
breath may need a closer examination of the heart and lungs.
Imaging studies and blood tests: The need for imaging studies and/or and blood tests will
depend on the concerns the health care practitioner and patient have in regard
to the cause
of the dizziness. Common tests that may be ordered include:
X-rays, CT scans, and
MRI may
be indicated depending upon the patient's needs.
Next: How is dizziness/vertigo diagnosed? »
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