Dizziness is defined as feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or disoriented. You can feel mildly or severely dizzy, and there are many possible triggers. For instance, people with fragrance sensitivities can experience dizziness when exposed to them. Others may feel dizzy while in a car or boat.
There’s dizziness caused by triggers and then there’s dizziness caused by a medical condition. Causes of dizziness are not always as innocuous, and it may be a symptom of a life-threatening condition. If you are feeling dizzy or have been experiencing dizziness with increasing frequency, schedule an appointment to see a doctor right away.
Let’s talk about the possible medical reasons for dizziness.
#1 Stroke
A stroke occurs because of reduced or blocked blood supply to the brain. It is through the blood that the brain gets oxygen and nutrients, and when there is a reduction or disruption to this, brain cells start to die. One of the hallmark symptoms of a stroke is dizziness, which is usually experienced alongside a headache. A stroke is a medical emergency, and the longer it goes untreated, the greater the chance of having permanent brain damage. Call for emergency assistance if you suspect that you or a loved one is having a stroke.
#2 Concussion
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that results from a blow to the head that causes the brain to bounce and twist inside the skull. Vehicular accidents, sports, falls, and work-related accidents are common causes of concussions. Headache is one of the most common symptoms of a concussion. Balance problems, vision problems, confusion, dizziness, seizures, and convulsions, are also recognized symptoms, all of which can appear immediately following the incident or several hours after.
#3 Neurological Conditions
Neurological disorders can affect your sense of balance, which can make dizziness a more frequent occurrence. Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis are two examples of neurological disorders known to cause dizziness.
Parkinson’s disease can affect the release of norepinephrine, which causes low blood pressure. This can lead to dizziness and vertigo, which are the most commonly reported symptoms of the neurological disorder. Multiple sclerosis, on the other hand, also causes dizziness, which is due to lesions in the pathways that coordinate visual, spatial, and other information to the brain to maintain balance and equilibrium.
Dizziness is concerning, because it may signal a serious problem with your health. Plus, it can also lead to falls and injuries, which can be dangerous. If you are having dizzy spells, talk to your doctor to find out its underlying cause.
Neurologists in Farmington Hills, Novi, Southfield, Howell or Brighton, MI
The neurologists at Associates in Neurology are highly experienced in treating patients who have suffered a stroke, concussion, or have been diagnosed with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis.
If you suspect that your headaches, migraines, dizziness, and balance issues are symptoms of something serious, make an appointment with us today. We utilize the latest technologies to accurately diagnose, treat, and improve the lives of our patients with neurological conditions. We do all this with a personal touch and always give our patients the respect and compassion they deserve.
Call our neurology clinic at (248) 478-5512 or use our convenient appointment request form.