If you’ve noticed a significant increase in dizzy spells, you’re probably concerned that your dizziness may be a sign of a serious health matter. At South Shore Cardiovascular Associates in Brandon, Riverview, and Tampa, Florida, you have access to a team of cardiologists who can assess your heart health and determine if your dizziness could be a symptom of a significant heart issue. Don’t live in fear about unusual symptoms when there are so many diagnostic tools available. Book your visit today, online or by phone.
Feeling dizzy is a term used to describe a number of sensations. Some describe the experience as feeling weak, woozy, unsteady, or off-balance. Dizziness can make you feel as though your body or your immediate surroundings are spinning, a condition called vertigo.
You may notice these symptoms growing worse when you stand, walk, or move your head suddenly. Episodes can last just a few seconds or for days at a time.
Dizziness can stem from many factors, which is why it’s important to seek a professional diagnosis for dizzy spells that are frequent or disruptive to your normal routines.
Heart failure, heart attack, or stroke can cause a sensation of light-headedness.
Some medications can cause dizziness, including those taken to lower your blood pressure. These medications can provoke a quick and significant drop in blood pressure, which leaves your brain without proper circulation.
This is the medical term for low blood pressure. You may have chronic low blood pressure, or the issue may only occur when your cardiovascular system doesn’t respond properly to sudden changes, like standing up.
If you have iron-poor anemia, you may experience dizzy spells. Getting anemia under control is important to your overall heart health.
Regardless of the cause, there are treatments that can help.
In some cases, it may be as simple as reviewing your medications and finding a combination that lessens dizzy spells.
For example, if you’ve been taking the same blood pressure medication for some time, you may be able to lower the dose or stop taking the medication completely. Never alter your drug therapy without working with a physician, as stopping suddenly can cause serious side effects.
Lifestyle changes can also help reduce dizziness. Losing a few extra pounds, finding ways to squeeze more exercise into your day, or embracing some new heart-healthy cooking techniques can go a long way toward boosting overall health.
If your dizziness comes from a heart condition, the problem may lessen as you move through your customized treatment process. Book a consultation online or by phone for a thorough diagnostic exam and a discussion of potential treatments.