Brief episodes of light-headedness are not usually the result of a serious problem. It is common to feel light-headed from time to time.

Dizziness can also lead to falls and other injuries. A fear of dizziness can cause older adults to limit their physical and social activities. You may have trouble walking or standing, and you may lose your balance and fall.Īlthough dizziness can occur in people of any age, it is more common among older adults. When you have severe vertigo, you may feel very nauseated or vomit. You may feel as though you are off balance, spinning, whirling, falling, or tilting.

Vertigo is a feeling that you or your surroundings are moving when there is no actual movement.

You may sometimes feel nauseated or vomit when you are light-headed. If light-headedness gets worse, it can lead to a feeling of almost fainting or a fainting spell ( syncope). Light-headedness often goes away or improves when you lie down.

Light-headedness is a feeling that you are about to faint or 'pass out.' Although you may feel dizzy, you do not feel as though you or your surroundings are moving.

It is important to know exactly what you mean when you say 'I feel dizzy,' because it can help you and your doctor narrow down the list of possible problems. Dizziness is a word that is often used to describe two different feelings.

Vertigo definition