Feeling dizzy can be unsettling, especially when it hits out of nowhere. Whether it’s a spinning sensation, lightheadedness, or feeling off-balance, dizziness can disrupt your day and make even simple tasks impossible. The good news? There are effective ways to manage and relieve dizziness.
In this article, you’ll learn how to get rid of dizziness using fast, proven strategies—plus when it’s time to see a doctor.
What Causes Dizziness?
Understanding the causes of dizziness is the first step to treating it effectively. Dizziness isn’t a condition itself—it’s a symptom. It can stem from something as simple as dehydration or something more complex, like a problem with your inner ear or blood pressure.
Common causes include:
- Inner ear issues (like vertigo or labyrinthitis)
- Dehydration or low blood sugar
- Sudden drops in blood pressure
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Medications (including blood pressure or sedative drugs)
- Migraines
- Poor circulation
Identifying what’s behind your dizziness can help you choose the proper remedy. For mild cases, home care works well. For more serious or recurring episodes, medical attention is essential.
How to Get Rid of Dizziness at Home
If you’re wondering how to get rid of dizziness fast, several home-based solutions may offer quick relief. These methods are safe to try and work for many common, non-serious causes.
Sit or Lie Down Immediately
The first rule of dizziness: stop what you’re doing. Sit or lie down right away to avoid falling or injuring yourself. Lie flat with your eyes closed and elevate your legs if possible. This increases blood flow to the brain and often helps the dizziness pass faster.
Hydrate Right Away
One of the most common causes is dehydration. Drink a full glass of water and continue to sip throughout the day. Avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can make symptoms worse. If dehydration is the issue, fluids alone can offer rapid relief.
Eat Something Light
Low blood sugar can trigger lightheadedness and dizziness. A quick snack that includes protein and carbs, like peanut butter on toast or yogurt with fruit, can help rebalance your blood sugar and stop dizziness.
Remedies for Dizziness That Work
Some simple, natural approaches have shown real promise regarding home remedies for dizziness.
Ginger Tea
Ginger is well-known for easing nausea and vertigo symptoms. Try sipping ginger tea or chewing raw ginger if you feel dizzy. Some people find ginger capsules or candies helpful as well.
Breathing Exercises
Shallow breathing can cause or worsen dizziness, especially if it’s linked to anxiety. Try this:
- Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 seconds
- Hold for 4 seconds
- Exhale slowly through your mouth for 4–6 seconds
Repeat for a few minutes to increase oxygen flow and calm your nervous system.
Epley Maneuver for Vertigo
If your dizziness is triggered by benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a specific head movement technique called the Epley maneuver may help. This series of movements shifts tiny crystals in your inner ear back to their proper place.
It’s best to try this maneuver under medical guidance first, but once you learn it, it’s safe to do at home.
How to Stop Dizziness Long-Term
If dizziness is a regular problem, the focus should shift from short-term fixes to stop dizziness from coming back. Here are some lifestyle adjustments that can make a difference:
Stay Well Hydrated Every Day
Make hydration a daily habit. Aim for at least 6–8 glasses of water daily, and more if you’re active, sick, or in a hot environment.
Avoid Sudden Position Changes
Stand up slowly from bed or seated to prevent a drop in blood pressure. Use support (like a hand on the wall or armrest) if needed.
Manage Stress and Anxiety
Anxiety is a significant trigger for dizziness. Daily relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can significantly reduce the frequency of episodes.
Check Your Medications
Certain drugs can cause dizziness as an adverse effect. If your symptoms started after beginning a new medication, speak with your doctor. Never stop a prescribed medication without medical advice.
What Helps With Dizziness When You Need Fast Relief?
Sometimes, you need quick help. Here’s what helps dizziness in the moment:
- Lie flat in a quiet, dark room
- Focus on a fixed point (this can help with vertigo-type dizziness)
- Use a cold compress on the back of your neck
- Chew gum or suck on peppermint candy, which may improve circulation and distract from symptoms
- Open a window to get fresh air if you feel stuffy or nauseous
If you’re prone to dizziness, keeping a “rescue kit” nearby with water, snacks, and ginger chews can be a game changer.
Dizziness Treatment Options from Your Doctor
If dizziness is frequent, severe, or affecting your quality of life, it’s time to explore professional treatment options. These may include:
- Prescribe dizziness medication such as meclizine or dimenhydrinate (especially for vertigo)
- Physical therapy to improve balance and reduce symptoms
- Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) for chronic inner ear disorders
- Blood pressure or cardiac evaluations
- MRI or CT scans if neurological causes are suspected
Your provider may also recommend a referral to a neurologist, ENT specialist, or cardiologist based on your symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Dizziness is sometimes a sign of something more serious. Seek immediate medical attention if it comes with chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, a sudden or severe headache, trouble walking or speaking, blurred or double vision, or weakness or numbness on one side of the body. These could be signs of a stroke, heart issue, or other urgent condition.
Need quick access to a doctor? Connect with a licensed provider through our telehealth services and get care from the comfort of home.
Conclusion
Dizziness is a common but treatable symptom. Whether it’s triggered by dehydration, anxiety, inner ear problems, or medications, the proper remedy often depends on the cause. Now that you know how to get rid of dizziness using proven home strategies, relaxation techniques, and simple changes, you can respond faster and more confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the quickest way to stop dizziness?
Lie down immediately, drink water, and breathe deeply. A small snack or ginger tea can also help quickly in many cases.
Can dehydration cause dizziness?
Yes, even mild dehydration can cause dizziness. Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to prevent it.
Are there home remedies for dizziness that work?
Yes. Hydration, ginger, breathing exercises, and the Epley maneuver (for vertigo) are all adequate for many people.