What Are the Causes of Dizziness in the Elderly?

Dizziness is a common problem among elderly people. Dizziness that occurs in the elderly generally lasts longer than in younger people and can have more causes. It often becomes necessary to seek medical treatment for persistent or incapacitating dizziness.

Identification

• Dizziness is described as a whirling sensation or a feeling of a loss of balance. Dizziness may be more prominent while bending over or when standing up quickly.

Vertigo

• Vertigo may be a cause of dizziness among elderly people. Exercises known as Brandt-Daroff maneuvers are often performed for three weeks or more to help relieve the symptoms of vertigo. Medications such as antihistamines may help relieve the dizziness but can be sedating.

Meniere's Syndrome

• Meniere's syndrome may affect people over 50 and often causes a roaring in the ears, a decline in hearing and dizziness. One treatment for Meniere's syndrome is an injection of medication directly into the eardrum.

Central Dizziness

• Central dizziness may appear after an event such as a stroke that involves the brain stem and cerebellum and may also precede other dangerous conditions. People who suffer from this type of dizziness often experience nausea, vertigo and illusions of motion for a long period of time.

Considerations

• Dizziness may be a sign of a more serious medical condition. Consult your doctor if you experience ongoing or incapacitating dizziness to obtain a correct diagnosis.