Side Effect: Dizziness

What is Dizziness?

What does Dizziness look like?

Dizziness can manifest in different ways, including:

• Feeling unsteady or off-balance
• A sensation of spinning
• Lightheadedness or faintness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty concentrating
• Staggering or swaying when walking

Who gets Dizziness?

While dizziness can affect anyone, some risk factors include:

• Older adults
• Inner ear problems
• Low blood pressure
• Dehydration
• Chronic migraines
• Anxiety
• Medications
  
  • Blood pressure medications
  • Sedating medications
    
    • Opioids
    • Benzodiazepines
    • Antihistamines
    • Muscle relaxants
  • Antibiotics
• Alcohol

How to prevent Dizziness

Dizziness prevention depends on its cause, but general prevention tips include:

• Staying hydrated
• Standing up slowly from a seated or lying position
• Managing stress and anxiety
• Controlling blood sugar
• Avoiding alcohol
• Avoid or adjust medications that can trigger dizziness.

How to treat Dizziness

Treatment of dizziness varies based on the underlying cause:

• Dehydration: drinking water and fluids with electrolytes.
• Inner ear issues: Balance exercises, medications like meclizine (Antivert®), or maneuvers like the Epley maneuver.
• Low blood pressure: increasing salt intake.
• Anxiety: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), stress management techniques, or medications.
• Medication-induced dizziness: Adjusting or switching medications with a healthcare provider’s guidance.