Dizziness facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Dizziness
Vertigo, the sensation of one's surroundings are spinning around them is a common symptom of dizziness.

Dizziness is a term that can refer to a sense of disorientation in space, vertigo, or lightheadedness. It can also refer to disequilibrium or a non-specific feeling, such as giddiness or foolishness. Dizziness is a common medical complaint, affecting 20-30% of persons.

Common causes of dizziness include:

• Inadequate blood supply to the brain due to:
  • A sudden fall in blood pressure
  • Heart problems or artery blockages
  • Anaemias, such as vitamin B₁₂ deficiency anemia, iron deficiency anemia
• Loss or distortion of vision or visual cues
• Standing too quickly/prolonged standing
• Disorders of the inner ear
• Dehydration
• Distortion of brain/nervous function by medications such as anticonvulsants and sedatives
• Dysfunction of cervical proprioception
• Side effects from other prescription drugs, such as proton-pump inhibitors or Coumadin (warfarin)

See also

In Spanish: Mareo para niños