Causes of Light Dizziness

Light dizziness can occur for any number of reasons. Some causes are benign and are no reason for alarm, but in some cases it can indicate a serious health issue. While self-diagnosis is easy, it is no substitute for a physician. If you are suffering from light dizziness and have any concerns, it is imperative that you see a doctor immediately.

Benign Physical Causes

• According to Dr. Linda Vorvick, "Most causes of dizziness are not serious and either quickly get better on their own or are easily treated." As far as medical conditions are concerned, she explains that light dizziness occurs when blood pressure suddenly drops or is caused by dehydration from things like vomiting, diarrhea or fever. More specifically, it can be the result of "flu, hypoglycemia, common cold or allergies."

Serious Physical Causes

• Although less common, light dizziness can be due to dangerous or life-threatening conditions. Dr. Vorvick points out that some serious causes "include heart problems (such as abnormal heart rhythm or heart attack), stroke, and severe drop in blood pressure (shock)." However, she continues to explain that these usually are accompanied by other problems, such as "chest pain, a feeling of a racing heart, loss of speech, change in vision, or other symptoms." Other dangerous reasons for light dizziness are "stroke, multiple sclerosis, seizures, a brain tumor, or a bleed in your brain." In cases like these, seeking medical attention is critical, as it could save your life.

Concussion

• Concussions are a major cause of light dizziness due to head trauma. Dr. Benjamin Wedro explains how a concussion is caused by trauma to the head and can be very common among athletes in contact sports. Logically, the best way to guard against such an injury is to wear a helmet. However, these injuries are accompanied by a plethora of other symptoms, such as irritability, vision problems, nausea and headache. An injury like this is tested and confirmed by a physician.

Drugs and Alcohol

• Many types of prescription drugs can cause dizziness. Dr. Douglas Hoffman points out that dizziness is common when using a new type of prescription drug and it is no cause for alarm. Prescription drugs that cause dizziness include "Certain antibiotics, tranquilizers, blood pressure medications, heart medications, and anti-seizure medications." Anyone who has used alcohol also knows that this substance causes dizziness, especially when consumed in large amounts.