Dizzy Spells in Seniors – Signs to Watch For

As they age, some seniors notice dizzy spells, but may dismiss it as a common symptom of aging – although it can be a cause for concern. Dizziness is one of the most common complaints from seniors and affects approximately one-quarter of the elderly population. Dizziness affects mobility, can increase the risk of falling, and is often a sign of a more serious health issue. It’s important for seniors to talk with their doctor to determine the cause of dizziness.

There are many causes of dizziness, ranging from minor to severe and potentially life-threatening. Below are six conditions associated with dizziness that could indicate those seemingly harmless dizzy spells are caused by something more serious.

1. Anisometropia

Dizziness can be one of the signs of anisometropia. This condition is caused when the eyes have different refractive powers and focus unevenly. It affects binocular vision, as those with anisometropia see objects larger in one eye and smaller in another. This may cause amblyopia, which is when the brain favors the stronger eye and starts to ignore visual inputs from the weaker eye. Other signs include nausea, headaches, poor depth perception, random lack of balance, and visual discomfort.

For seniors who have never had eye problems before, they might not realize what is happening or that they need glasses. Uncorrected vision can cause a host of other issues too.

2. Anemia

Anemia is caused by low levels of hemoglobin in red blood cells. In turn, the brain does not get enough oxygen, and dizziness may ensue. Recurrent headaches are also a sign of anemia as the blood vessels in the brain can swell when the brain isn’t getting enough oxygen. Other symptoms can include tiredness, cold hands and feet, feeling anxious, or contracting infections more frequently.

If a senior is diagnosed with anemia, then they may be prescribed an iron supplement or a diet that is higher in iron. Foods high in iron include liver, organ meat, tofu, spinach, chicken, turkey, beef, broccoli, red kidney beans, and more.

3. Hypokalemia

Hypokalemia is the name for insufficient levels of potassium. Potassium regulates nerve signals, fluid balance, and happens to be one of the most essential minerals that we need. A diet high in potassium protects against kidney stones, strokes, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and water retention. Low amounts of potassium can produce symptoms of lethargy, dizziness, and a slowed heartbeat, which can increase the risk of falling and fainting. This can be especially dangerous for seniors who are already at a higher risk of falls.

For those diagnosed with hypokalemia, a doctor may prescribe a potassium supplement or increased potassium diet. Foods high in potassium include potatoes, kidney beans, prunes, trout, and more.

4. Inner Ear Problems (Vertigo)

Dizziness is one of the symptoms of vertigo, which occurs when the brain receives signals from the inner ear that are inconsistent with the signals from other sensory nerves. When the brain is trying to make sense of the conflicting signals, a person may feel as though their surroundings are either moving or spinning. There are different causes of vertigo, such as minor dehydration, or even looking downwards from a higher elevation. Other causes of vertigo are migraines, infections in the inner ear, Meniere’s Disease, or even Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV).

5. Dementia

Dementia is a loss of cognitive function, which includes language and self-management skills, reasoning, visual perception, thinking, and remembering. It affects 30 percent of seniors, and up to 15 percent of younger people also develop early-onset dementia. Dizziness can be one of the early signs of dementia for those who feel dizzy when they stand up after sitting or lying down. Studies have shown that some who experience dizziness when standing later developed dementia and even stroke.

6. Stroke

Strokes happen when a blood vessel carrying oxygen to the brain is either blocked or bursts open. Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. People over the age of 55 are at a higher risk for strokes, and that risk increases with age. The lack of oxygen during a stroke kills brain cells, and the surrounding parts of the body subsequently stop working. Sudden dizziness is only one of the signs of a stroke, the others including face drooping, speech difficulty, confusion, and weakness.

While there may be many reasons for dizziness – especially among seniors – some causes are preventable. Low potassium and low iron levels can be remedied by taking supplements and eating foods with the recommended daily amounts. Strokes and dementia aren’t preventable, but steps can be taken to lower the risk of having them, and early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce serious complications.