What causes dizziness, vertigo, and nausea?
Jun 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, and nausea may be caused by excessive mental stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, low blood sugar, cervical spondylosis, or other similar conditions. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment measures and medication. It is recommended to immediately lie down in a safe and quiet place, relax all body muscles, and close the eyes to reduce visual stimulation, which may help alleviate the discomfort.
Generally, symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and nausea may be caused by excessive mental stress, lack of sleep, dehydration, hypoglycemia, cervical spondylosis, and other factors. Symptomatic management through general treatments and medications may be necessary. If symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Excessive Mental Stress
Long-term mental stress may trigger stress responses in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances and causing symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, and nausea. Additionally, excessive mental stress may affect sleep quality, further worsening these symptoms. Emotional regulation through counseling and relaxation training can help alleviate mental stress.
2. Lack of Sleep
Sleep deprivation prevents the brain from getting adequate rest and recovery, disrupting nervous system function and causing symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, and nausea. It may also be accompanied by physical weakness, low spirits, and difficulty concentrating. It is recommended to maintain a regular sleep schedule, create a quiet and comfortable sleeping environment, and avoid using electronic devices before bedtime.
3. Dehydration
Dehydration may occur when fluid intake is insufficient or fluid loss is excessive. During dehydration, blood viscosity increases, leading to inadequate cerebral blood supply and resulting in lightheadedness and dizziness. Dehydration may also irritate the gastric mucosa, causing nausea, often accompanied by thirst, dark urine, and reduced urine output. It is recommended to replenish fluids and electrolytes promptly, such as drinking water or sports drinks.
4. Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia mainly results from inadequate food intake or excessive blood sugar reduction. The brain relies on glucose as an energy source; when glucose levels are low, the brain lacks sufficient energy supply, causing lightheadedness and dizziness. Hypoglycemia may also stimulate the stomach, causing nausea, and may be accompanied by sweating, tremors, palpitations, and other symptoms. It is recommended to consume sugary foods or drinks immediately and follow medical advice to use medications such as glucose sodium chloride injection, hydrocortisone tablets, or mannitol injection to relieve symptoms.
5. Cervical Spondylosis
Chronic strain or degeneration of the cervical spine may lead to cervical spondylosis. In cervical spondylosis, herniated intervertebral discs or bone spurs may compress the carotid artery or nerve roots, impairing cerebral blood supply and causing lightheadedness and dizziness. Cervical spondylosis may also irritate neck muscles, causing nausea, often accompanied by neck pain, shoulder, and back pain. It is recommended to use medications such as chlorzoxazone tablets, eperisone hydrochloride tablets, or naproxen sodium tablets under medical guidance for treatment.
When experiencing symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, and nausea, it is recommended to immediately lie down in a safe and quiet place, relax all muscles, and close the eyes to reduce visual stimulation, which may help alleviate discomfort.
