Giddiness is a common enough problem in the aging population, and it also happens to be one of the most ignored. The typical reaction being that age is a factor and can lead to tiredness, or fatigue, leading to giddiness. However, in truth, there could be many underlying factors influencing that giddiness. Especially if it is not a one-off case and you find a pattern of giddiness occurs, then it is better to get to a physician and check out why it is happening. However, for the purpose of awareness, here are a few common reasons why seniors may get giddiness.
Low Blood Sugar
If people already have been diagnosed with diabetes, then perhaps it is quick and easy to link their giddiness with diabetes and low sugar. But, sometimes, it so happens that the giddiness in such a case may be due to other reasons as well. Also, non-diabetic people too may have bouts of low blood sugar based giddiness, if they do not eat regular meals. Eating after a long gap can also cause this issue. Also, there is quite a chance that it is an indication of the onset of diabetes. Hence, it may good to get a check-up done to rule out diabetes as well. And for the diabetics, if giddiness often occurs, especially despite taking regular meals, then perhaps a check-up is due to change the dosage of the medications.
Dehydration
Seniors are more prone to dehydration than the younger lot, especially in hot climates. Even if the environment if not too hot, it is essential for seniors to keep drinking water and liquids regularly, and keep themselves hydrated. It is a good practice to set a reminder or a time table to drink water or juices. Giddiness, if it occurs, can also be a sign of dehydration, and hence if you feel that you may have fallen back on water consumption, please drink some water. You may vary the water in various forms like fruit juices, tender coconut, watery fruits and veggies like cucumber, radish, tomato, watermelon, strawberry, melon, pineapple, orange, spinach, etc.
Low Blood Pressure
Just like diabetics, people who have already been diagnosed with blood pressure issues and are on medication may also have bouts of giddiness. Both low and high blood pressure can cause giddiness. This is mostly observed when people sit or stand suddenly, and they feel giddy. This may be an indication of some issue in the vestibular system, and if you find this happening frequently, then you should immediately consult a doctor. Also, if you are on medications for BP, and the giddiness persists, there could be a reason to modify the dosages, which the doctor can fix, after some tests.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition caused when the iron content in your body goes down, and giddiness is one of the symptoms associated with it. If, along with giddiness, you feel an overall fatigue throughout and a lack of energy and lethargy to do any work, then perhaps, it could be anemia. A visit to the doc, followed by prescribed tests, can confirm the same.
The world over, the anemic population of seniors is increasing, and India is not far behind. Many studies point out that India has a very high prevalence of anemia among seniors, and especially among women. So, it is good to include foods with high iron content like spinach, legumes, beetroot, broccoli, apple, watermelon, pomegranate, strawberries, seafood, brown rice, whole grains, etc.
Medications
Certain medications, including the BP medication, can also be the cause of giddiness. Hence, when you visit a doc to get your giddiness checked, it is important to also discuss all medications with the doc. Even if you had taken some non-prescription medicine on the day when giddiness occurred, that might have caused the same. So, keep a track and mention all the medication taken and get concurrence from the doctor on what can be taken and when.
Vertigo
Another common cause for giddiness in seniors happens to be Vertigo. This may also be accompanied by a ringing sensation in the ears, and a general heavy feeling in the head. Extreme care should be taken if you have bouts of Vertigo, and a thorough check-up should be done to determine it, followed by treatment as prescribed. Some exercises can ease Vertigo, apart from the tablets taken for emergency relief.
Cervical issues
A cervical issue like constant neck or head pain, which you ignore, or some previous trauma in the area, can also cause bouts of giddiness. Therefore, if you have had neck or head pain, followed by bouts of giddiness, perhaps you should get it checked for cervical issues like spondylitis, etc. Physiotherapy and regular exercises can help in curing this issue, apart from a little care.
Stroke
In extreme cases, giddiness may also be caused due to a stroke, and in such cases, it is important to get the person to emergency care without delay. It is best to make sure that the person receives the necessary attention to ensure that any fatal issues do not occur.
Apart from what is mentioned above, there are also a few other reasons why people may feel giddy, but these are the major causes. Hence, one should keep a watch and make sure appropriate treatment is taken to address the issue.
