Few symptoms are so universal as dizziness in determining when something is wrong with the body. Dizzy spells can indicate a small imbalance or something much more serious. In aging adults, who are more prone to illness and disease, dizziness can be a red flag to family caregivers that their elderly loved one need some medical attention. If an elderly relative is always dizzy, family caregivers need to act right away.
Immediate Action for Senior Dizzy Spells
If an aging adult is having a dizzy spell, family caregivers and senior care providers need to act quickly to ensure the situation doesnt escalate and they hurt themselves or otherwise jeopardize their health. Dizzy spells can lead to falls and injuries like concussions, broken bones and cuts and bruises. Family caregivers and senior care providers should help the senior sit down and put their feet up. If it is a hot day, they should try to keep the aging adult cool, with sips of water and a wet cloth to moisten the skin.
If the dizzy spell is caused by a caffeine or sugar rush, the heat, or from something like standing up too fast, it should pass in about 15 minutes. Family caregivers and senior care providers should make sure the aging adult feels steady on their feet before getting up again. Of course, the elderly adult should be supported as they get up and walk in case they have another. Some dizzy spells lead to fainting, and if that is the case the family caregiver and senior care provider should support the aging adult from falling over. They must make sure the seniors airway is clear and that they are breathing without labor.
Frequent Causes of Dizziness in Elderly Adults
If the dizziness lasts more than 15 minutes or there are an increasing number of dizzy spells, family caregivers should not delay in getting their loved one to a doctor. Causes of dizziness range in severity, but its always good to get a diagnosis so treatments can begin, or the underlying cause can be addressed. Here are some conditions that are often the cause of one-time or recurring dizzy spells:
- Excess caffeine
- Excess alcohol
- Side effect of prescription or over-the-counter medication
- Low blood sugar
- Fatigue
- Extreme heat
- Dehydration
- Vertigo
- Low blood pressure or high blood pressure
- Panic attacks
- Anemia
- Heat stroke
- Ear infections
- Chronic stress
- Stroke
- Heart attack
Dizziness can be one of the symptoms of a number of illnesses and chronic conditions and rarely occur without other symptoms. Observation and action are required of both family caregivers and senior care providers when seniors display frequent dizziness. Its important for family caregivers and senior care providers to watch out for dizzy spells and address them if they are becoming commonplace.
If you or an aging loved one are considering senior care in St. Louis Park, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.
