Dizziness is a broad term for sensations like feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or faint. It can also manifest as disorientation or unsteadiness while walking. This sensation often stems from disturbances in the body’s balance system. Viral infections, including those affecting the respiratory system, can sometimes trigger these sensations.
Dizziness as a COVID-19 Symptom
Dizziness can be a symptom experienced by individuals with COVID-19. Reports indicate that approximately 4% to 30% of patients have experienced dizziness during their illness. This symptom can appear at different stages of the infection, sometimes even before respiratory symptoms like cough or shortness of breath. Dizziness can also persist as part of long COVID, affecting individuals weeks or months after the initial infection.
Understanding Why Dizziness Occurs with COVID-19
Dizziness in COVID-19 patients can be attributed to several physiological responses. Common symptoms like fever and excessive sweating can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which are known causes of dizziness. Reduced fluid intake due to illness can further worsen this dehydration.
Another contributing factor is orthostatic hypotension, a condition where blood pressure drops significantly upon standing, or postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). These conditions can result from reduced blood volume due to illness and prolonged bed rest, or from the virus affecting the autonomic nervous system, which regulates functions like blood pressure and heart rate.
The body’s immune response to the virus, including widespread inflammation and a “cytokine storm,” can impact the brain and inner ear’s vestibular system, important for balance. This inflammation can affect the vestibular nerve, leading to sensations of spinning or unsteadiness.
While less common, the virus may directly invade nervous system tissues or inner ear structures, potentially causing specific types of dizziness or vertigo. Additionally, some medications used to treat COVID-19 symptoms, such as certain antivirals, may list dizziness as a potential side effect.
When to Seek Medical Care for Dizziness
It is advisable to seek medical attention if dizziness is severe, sudden in onset, recurs frequently, or persists for a prolonged period without an apparent cause.
Immediate medical care is needed if dizziness is accompanied by other serious symptoms, including:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden confusion
- Changes in vision like double vision or vision loss
- Slurred speech
- Weakness in the arms, legs, or face
- A severe headache
- Fainting spells
- Inability to stand or walk without assistance
- Dizziness that significantly worsens
- A pale, gray, or blue tint to the lips, skin, or nail beds
Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or a history of stroke should also consult a healthcare professional if they experience dizziness, as it might signal a worsening of their underlying health status.
Managing Dizziness During COVID-19 Recovery
For individuals experiencing dizziness during COVID-19 recovery, several self-care strategies can help manage symptoms. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, including those with electrolytes, is beneficial. Eating small, frequent meals can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Ensuring adequate rest is important for overall recovery and can help reduce dizzy spells.
When changing positions, especially from lying down to standing, do so slowly and deliberately. Sitting on the edge of the bed for a few moments before fully standing can help the body adjust. Creating a safe home environment by clearing pathways and ensuring good lighting can help prevent falls. Limiting or avoiding substances like caffeine and alcohol may also reduce dizziness. If dizziness occurs, lying down immediately can help alleviate the sensation.