Lightheadedness

Lightheadedness (pronunciation: /ˈlaɪtˌhɛdɪdnəs/) is a common and typically unpleasant sensation of dizziness or a feeling that one may faint. The sensation is relatively short-lived and can often be relieved by lying down.

Etymology

The term "lightheadedness" is derived from the Old English words "leoht" meaning "light" and "heafod" meaning "head". It was first used in the 14th century to describe a feeling of being faint or dizzy.

Symptoms

Lightheadedness is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, fainting, and balance problems. It can also be a symptom of a variety of conditions, including dehydration, low blood pressure, and certain heart conditions.

Causes

Lightheadedness can be caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure or heart rate, or by a problem in the inner ear. Other causes can include stress, anxiety, hyperventilation, and certain medications.

Treatment

Treatment for lightheadedness depends on the underlying cause. It may include drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, lying down or sitting down to increase blood flow to the brain, and in some cases, medication or other treatments may be necessary.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Lightheadedness
Wikipedia's article - Lightheadedness

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Lightheadedness