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Complications Of Vertigo

Vertigo, or the sensation when a person's head is spinning, is a form of dizziness caused by conflicting signals between the brain and the body's balance and position-sensing signals. Symptoms of vertigo vary in severity and may include lightheadedness, difficulty balancing, nausea or vomiting. Severe symptoms may cause complications, such as increased risk for falls and accidents, dehydration and emotional complications.

  1. Risks of Falls and Accidents

    • Because of the dizziness and illusion of movement caused by vertigo, sufferers are at an increased risk of falls and accidents. To reduce the risk of falls, always use good lighting in your home, make sure your path is cleared of obstacles and use a cane or walker for support, if necessary. Use caution when working or driving if you have been experiencing vertigo symptoms.

    Dehydration

    • Severe vertigo can cause nausea and vomiting, which may lead to dehydration if left untreated. This is especially risky for people age 60 and older, who are more likely to experience vertigo and become dehydrated more easily. Inform your doctor if you experience nausea or vomiting. Your doctor can assess your risk for dehydration and suggest treatment options, such as prescribing the motion-sickness drug meclizine.

    Quality of Life

    • Severe or prolonged vertigo symptoms can negatively impact a person's quality of life by limiting their activities. For example, vertigo sufferers may not be able to drive or operate equipment at work. If not addressed, this may increase vertigo sufferers' risk of developing depression or anxiety. Discuss the severity of your symptoms with your doctor. Your doctor can offer information on how long your symptoms are likely to last and suggestions for managing them.

    Other Complications

    • Sudden or prolonged vertigo can signal a serious medical condition, such as a heart condition or stroke. Seek immediate medical attention if vertigo is accompanied by a severe headache, fever, vision changes, muscle weakness, fainting, loss of hearing or speech abilities, or heart attack symptoms. Also, inform your doctor and pharmacist of any medications you are taking and about your alcohol consumption, as interactions with certain substances can trigger or worsen vertigo.

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