When You Should Go to the Emergency Department for Dizziness
Ifiokobong Ene
Freelance Medical Researcher & Content Writer - Dedicated to making health and wellness information available, actionable, and understandable so that readers can make the best decisions about their health.
Dizziness encompasses a range of sensations such as feeling lightheaded, unstable, confused, or faint. In most cases, it is not a matter of immediate concern. However, when accompanied by other symptoms, it could indicate a potential medical emergency.
Considering the expenses associated with emergency department visits, it is beneficial to understand the circumstances that warrant seeking emergency assistance for dizziness.
This article aims to explore situations where dizziness may necessitate a trip to the emergency department, also referred to as the emergency room or ER. Additionally, it will outline the actions and assistance provided by emergency medical staff. Furthermore, we will discuss nonemergency symptoms that may indicate the need for prompt medical attention.
Symptoms of dizziness that can prompt you to visit the emergency unit
Generally, dizziness is not a worrisome symptom. However, there are rare instances where it may serve as an early warning sign of a medical emergency, such as a stroke. In such cases, paying attention to accompanying symptoms can offer valuable insights into the appropriate course of action to take.
Head injury
If you encounter dizziness following a head injury, it is crucial to promptly seek medical attention. This is essential as it could indicate the presence of a concussion or a more severe traumatic brain injury. It is important not to underestimate the potential seriousness of such symptoms and to ensure that appropriate medical evaluation and care are received without delay.
Chest pain
If dizziness is accompanied by chest pain, it may indicate a critical cardiac event, such as a heart attack. In the event that the chest pain persists for more than a few minutes, it is imperative to contact emergency services immediately.
Shortness of breath
Although many cases of shortness of breath (dyspnea) accompanied by dizziness do not require emergency assistance, it is important to recognize that it could be a sign of the following serious conditions:
Other symptoms that may require a visit to the emergency ward
Underlying health conditions that might prompt a visit to the emergency department
The severity of dizziness can escalate if an underlying condition is present. If you have a history of any of the following, it is advisable to seek immediate medical attention at an emergency department:
Additionally, recent research conducted in 2021 suggests that older adults may face a higher susceptibility to time-sensitive conditions.
Furthermore, the usage of blood thinners may also elevate the risk of developing a time-sensitive medical condition. A study conducted in 2021 revealed that the utilization of blood thinners doubled the likelihood of such a condition occurring.
When should you seek a doctor’s attention for dizziness?
Not all instances of dizziness indicate an emergency situation. Some cases may stem from issues with the vestibular system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and is connected to the inner ear and the brain. Such cases typically do not require immediate emergency attention.
Furthermore, there are numerous non-vestibular causes of dizziness that are also not considered emergencies. Examples of these causes include dehydration and side effects of certain medications.
If you experience dizziness related to non-emergency situations, it is advisable to contact your doctor and schedule an in-office evaluation. Pay attention to accompanying symptoms such as:
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These symptoms can provide valuable information to your doctor during the evaluation process.
Steps to take before seeking medical attention
When experiencing dizziness, it is recommended to lie down and attempt to relax until the sensation subsides. Avoid engaging in activities that exacerbate the dizziness, and exercise caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position.
If you become dizzy while driving, pull over to a safe location on the side of the road and wait until the dizziness dissipates. Refrain from operating a vehicle or machinery while experiencing dizziness.
Smoking can intensify dizziness, so it is advisable to quit smoking if you are a smoker and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
It is worth noting that certain medications may have dizziness as a side effect. However, it is crucial to consult with a doctor before discontinuing any medications.
What will the emergency department do for you?
During an emergency visit, the doctor will conduct a thorough assessment by asking questions regarding your symptoms and medical history. They will also perform a physical examination.
Based on their initial observations, the doctor may recommend further tests to either confirm or exclude the possibility of a serious underlying cause. These additional tests may include:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This imaging technique provides detailed images of the head and can help identify any structural issues or abnormalities.
Head Impulse, Nystagmus, Test of Skew (HINTS) exam: This series of tests evaluates eye movements and coordination to assess the functioning of the vestibular system.
Balance and gait test (Romberg test): This test assesses your ability to maintain balance and coordination while standing with eyes closed.
Audiogram hearing test: This evaluates your hearing abilities and can help identify any hearing-related causes of dizziness.
Vestibular testing: These specialized tests assess the functioning of the vestibular system, which plays a key role in balance.
Electrocardiography (ECG): This test measures the electrical activity of the heart and can help detect any heart-related causes of dizziness.
These tests aid in the diagnostic process and provide the doctor with valuable information to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Takeaway
Dizziness on its own is often a temporary and common sensation that resolves without any major concerns. However, if dizziness persists for an extended duration, is accompanied by other symptoms, or recurs frequently, it is advisable to get in touch with your doctor.
Certain symptoms, such as the inability to speak, loss of balance or coordination, severe headache, or fainting, can indicate a more serious underlying medical condition. In such cases, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention at an emergency department.
When you visit an emergency department, the medical staff will conduct a thorough evaluation, including gathering a complete medical history and inquiring about your symptoms. They may also perform diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the dizziness and provide appropriate treatment accordingly.
Ifiokobong Ene is a Medical Physiologist, and a freelance medical writer. Ifiok brings his years of medical research experience to help consistently create high-quality, and engaging articles and products that uphold the highest medical standards. He is dedicated to making health and wellness information available, actionable, and understandable so that readers can make the best decisions about their health. Catch him on Fiverr and Upwork.