Dizziness and nausea are common issues that many people experience. In most cases, these symptoms are mild and go away after resting or eating foods that help ease nausea. However, when dizziness and nausea occur together, it could indicate underlying health issues that may need serious attention.

Causes of Dizziness and Nausea Together

Dizziness usually isn’t linked to serious medical conditions. It often arises when you’re hungry, tired, overslept, or have exerted yourself physically. On the other hand, nausea refers to an uncomfortable feeling in the stomach that can lead to vomiting, and it may be triggered by infections, viruses, or sudden shocks.

Sometimes, dizziness and nausea occur simultaneously. Understanding the causes of these symptoms can help you manage them effectively. Some of the causes include:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional (BPPV)

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo or BPPV is an inner ear condition that often leads to vertigo. Small crystals called otoconia in the inner ear help with balance, and when these crystals dislodge, it results in BPPV. This condition causes a spinning sensation, often accompanied by nausea and dizziness.

In most cases, BPPV improves after resting or by using the Epley maneuver. However, if nausea becomes too intense, your doctor may suggest medications to ease it.

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness can occur during travel by car, plane, or boat. While traveling, the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes, ears, and body. For example, your eyes see the road or scenery moving, but your body remains still. This mismatch in signals prompts the brain to activate a response that can stimulate the vomiting center.

Motion sickness usually subsides once the journey ends or the vehicle comes to a stop. To help prevent it, consider these tips:

• Avoid reading in the car
• Take motion sickness medication before traveling
• Sit in the front seat or by the window
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid heavy meals before traveling

Pregnancy

Dizziness and nausea are common complaints during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. These symptoms are often due to hormonal changes. While they may improve during the second trimester, headaches may return if you become dehydrated or overexerted.

Low blood sugar

Low blood sugar can result in dizziness accompanied by weakness, fatigue, trembling, sweating, hunger, and nausea. Although the exact cause is unclear, it’s believed that significant fluctuations in blood sugar levels trigger a stress response that leads to headaches. Consuming sugary foods or drinks can help alleviate dizziness and nausea caused by low blood sugar.

Anxiety

Anxiety can activate the body's fight-or-flight response, raising blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing, which can lead to dizziness or headaches. Anxiety can also redirect blood flow away from the digestive system, causing nausea. To manage anxiety, try relaxation exercises, rest, or journaling.

Brain Tumor

Though rare, brain tumors are a serious condition that can cause simultaneous dizziness and nausea. Other symptoms may include headaches, balance problems, vision disturbances, and personality changes.

While dizziness and nausea are often due to minor health issues, they could also signal more serious illnesses. If these symptoms persist, it’s best to consult a doctor. You can also use the consultation feature in the Ai Care app for assistance.

Looking for more information about other medical conditions? Click here!