There are different types of dizziness — some that require a doctor’s attention. But if you experience occasional, mild bouts of dizziness, you probably don’t have to worry too much.
Here are some tips to help you overcome occasional bouts of mild dizziness.
- Focus on a fixed point. If a sudden bout of dizziness comes on, find something still to look at. This will give your brain visual information about balance — that window frame or bookshelf isn’t moving so maybe the floor ISN’T off-kilter. If dizziness attacks in a moving vehicle, try to find a steady point on the horizon to watch — a building or tall tree. If there’s nothing on the horizon, lock your eyes onto the car in front of you and don’t glance out the side windows.
- Stand up slowly. Getting up too quickly can change your blood pressure — a drop in blood pressure can lower blood flow to the brain. Give yourself time when you rise so your brain and blood pressure can keep up.
- Keep yourself hydrated. Dehydration is frequently a cause of occasional dizziness. Drink water before and after exercise, especially on hot days. Try to drink between eight and twelve glasses of water every day — yes, it sounds like you’ll be in the bathroom a lot, but better that than falling over with a dizzy spell!
- Keep your breathing regular. If you tend to hold your breath or breathe too quickly when you’re stressed or exercising (for example), you may end up with a dizzy spell. Concentrate on breathing deeply and slowly to keep carbon dioxide in the body in balance.
- Check the side effects on your medications. Even common, over the counter medicines like antihistamines may make you prone to bouts of dizziness. Blood pressure medicines are also common culprits for dizzy spells. Talk to your doctor about changing your medication if the dizziness is a problem.
- Watch your intake of caffeine, alcohol, aspartame, salt, and sugar. All of these things can mess with the fluid in your inner ear — meaning dizziness may be on the way.
While you’re dealing with dizziness, let other people do the balance-intensive chores like climbing ladders and carrying heavy stuff. No sense putting yourself in situations where you are more likely to lose your balance and fall!