In this Article

• Introduction to dizziness (feeling dizzy)
• What are some common causes of dizziness?
• Low blood pressure
• Postural or orthostatic hypotension
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Endocrine diseases
• Hyperventilation
• Heart conditions
• Vasovagal syncope
• Dizziness and vertigo
• What are the symptoms experienced when a person feels dizzy?
• When should I call the doctor for dizziness?
• How is dizziness diagnosed?
• How is dizziness/vertigo diagnosed?
• How is dizziness treated?
• Dizziness At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Dizziness - Describe Your Diagnosis
• Dizziness (Dizzy) Glossary
• Dizziness (Dizzy) Index

How is dizziness treated?

Dizziness treatment

Dizziness is a symptom, not a disease, and treatment will be directed to the underlying cause. For example, dizziness or lightheadedness due to dehydration from gastroenteritis may require intravenous fluids and medications to stop the vomiting and diarrhea, while dizziness or lightheadedness from a heart rhythm condition may require admission to the hospital and specialized testing and treatment.

Vertigo treatment

• Vertigo from inner ear problems may often be treated with maneuvers to reposition the crystals and debris in the semicircular canals.
  
  
• Depending upon the reason for the inner ear inflammation, oral steroid medications to decrease that inflammation might be prescribed.
  
  
• Over-the-counter or prescription medication is occasionally recommended or prescribed to help with vertigo. Meclizine (Antivert) may help with control of mild symptoms.
  
  
• In patients with intractable symptoms and vomiting, intravenous diazepam (Valium) may be considered.
  
  
• Patients with Meniere's Disease or acoustic neuroma are usually referred to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist, ENT physician) for further evaluation and care.
  
  

Dizziness - Describe Your Diagnosis

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Please describe your diagnosis of your dizziness.

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Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• diazepam, Valium - Describes the medication diazepam (Valium), a drug used for the short-term relief of symptoms related to anxiety disorders.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC) - A complete blood count (CBC) measures the concentration of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in the blood and aids in the diagnosis of conditions and diseases such as anemia, malignancies, and immune disorders.
• Low Blood Pressure - Learn about low blood pressure (hypotension). Low blood pressure is blood pressure below normal and symptoms may include: lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting upon standing (orthostatic hypotension). There are many causes of low blood pressure, and treatment is dependant upon the cause.

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