Dizziness during pregnancy is common. It can occur even in those who have never experienced such a condition before conceiving a baby. Its intensity can vary - from mild, insignificant dizziness, to very noticeable, preceding vomiting and fainting.
According to modern medicine, mild dizziness during pregnancy is not a serious cause for concern. But during this period, a woman needs to know why malaise occurs and how to behave if she feels dizzy.
Is dizziness a sign of pregnancy?
This is a rather subjective sign that may have nothing to do with pregnancy. A pregnant woman usually not only feels dizzy, but also develops strange eating habits, weakness and drowsiness. This occurs due to a decrease in the concentration of estrogen in the blood. Along with this, the amount of progestin, which protects pregnancy, increases.
If you have no other signs of an interesting position other than dizziness, wait a little and after a delay, carry out the test.
Dizziness during pregnancy
Treatment
Typically, weakness and dizziness during pregnancy, both in the early stages and in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, do not require medication. Treatment for this condition depends on what is causing it. If the cause of dizziness and nausea during pregnancy is toxicosis, then the doctor may recommend taking antiemetic drugs, for example, Cerucal.
If dizziness is caused by anemia, then treatment consists of taking iron supplements. Severe dizziness during pregnancy, caused by a sharp change in blood sugar levels, requires consultation with a gastrologist. It must be remembered that taking any medications during pregnancy must be agreed with the attending physician.
Traditional medicine also offers recipes for the treatment of headaches and dizziness during pregnancy. To eliminate these symptoms, it is recommended to drink weak tea made from mint and lemon balm. Mint can be used as a snorting powder at the first symptoms of illness. If weakness and dizziness during pregnancy are caused by heat or prolonged exposure to a stuffy, unventilated room, you can put a cold compress on your head.
When the first symptoms of dizziness appear, you should lie on your back and raise your legs. When it is not possible to lie down, you should sit down and lower your head low so that blood flows to the brain. If a pregnant woman faints, you need to lay her on her back and raise her legs. Then unbutton your collar, loosen your clothes, and open the window to let in fresh air. Spray your face with water or hold a napkin moistened with ammonia, vinegar or cologne to your nose. If fainting is caused by a hungry state, then after regaining consciousness, you need to give the pregnant woman warm, sweet tea and let her lie quietly.
When does dizziness start during pregnancy?
Usually, dizziness is felt shortly before the expected period or already in the process of delay. Doctors believe that mild dizziness that does not cause fainting is normal in the first trimester. If you are planning a baby, assess your health. Some illnesses can make the situation worse.
Dizziness during pregnancy is more severe in the following cases:
- Having back and neck problems
- Psychosomatic illnesses
- Osteochondrosis
- Vascular diseases
- Reduced hemoglobin
Try to treat these ailments before pregnancy. These disorders prevent the normal flow of blood through the vessels. The brain and tissues may not have enough oxygen, so you feel dizzy.
My head is spinning
Causes of dizziness during pregnancy
Of course, if the expectant mother is very active, then she should slow down the pace a little. You need to come to terms with the interesting situation and understand that you need rest. Otherwise, the body may go on “strike”.
Causes of dizziness in an interesting position:
- Sudden change of position. Do not rise abruptly from a chair or seat in a vehicle
- Staying in a cramped and unventilated area
- Increased blood supply to the uterus
- Decreased glucose levels
- Anemia
- Pathologies and disorders in the functioning of the vestibular apparatus
Feeling dizzy during pregnancy
Diagnosis of dizziness in pregnant women
The cause of dizziness is difficult to identify; for this it is necessary to undergo a number of studies:
- A general blood test is a study that allows you to identify the hemoglobin level in the blood, as well as the volume of red blood cells, leukocytes, and platelets. This test helps determine the presence or absence of anemia.
- Blood chemistry.
- Urinalysis is a urine test that helps determine the presence of inflammatory processes occurring in the body, especially in the kidneys.
- In agreement with the gynecologist, X-ray of the cervical spine.
- Abdominal ultrasound.
- Electrocardiography.
- Echoencephalography.
Should you experience dizziness and nausea in the first trimester of pregnancy?
If you are in a position, and you do not have nausea or dizziness, then everything is fine. Accordingly, all organs have enough blood and oxygen. The brain is not “starving.” There are no disturbances in the functioning of the vestibular apparatus. Therefore, if you feel great, this does not mean that you are not in a position. Most women perceive pregnancy as a disease.
With proper nutrition and exercise, you can minimize all subjective signs of pregnancy.
Feeling dizzy during pregnancy
Dizziness and nausea in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy
If in the first trimester dizziness should not cause concern, then the second trimester requires a more thorough examination. Such conditions can significantly worsen a woman’s life and lead to premature birth.
Causes of dizziness in the second trimester:
- Diseases of the pancreas. In this situation, some women may experience diabetes mellitus. It goes away after childbirth, but this disease can significantly affect the course of pregnancy
- Anemia. During pregnancy, the functioning of the digestive system may be disrupted. The intestines do not fully absorb all the necessary substances. A woman feels weak due to iron deficiency
- Oxygen starvation. An enlarged uterus requires more blood. Accordingly, it is not enough for the brain
Feeling dizzy in 2nd trimester
Pathogenesis in the early stages
In the early stages, the causes of dizziness in pregnant women are gestational manifestations. This is due to the redistribution of blood flow, a woman’s greater need for nutrients necessary not only for the poor mother herself, legs and for the developing fetus.
The load on the cardiovascular and hematopoietic system increases. This leads to hemodynamic disturbances, robbing brain cells of oxygen for the benefit of the growing organism. The consequence of hypoxia of the stem part is the appearance of vomiting. The result of dehydration and thickening of the blood leads to difficulty in its passage through the vascular bed.
Dizziness and nausea in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy
It all depends on the duration of the dizziness. But it is believed that feeling unwell should not be a cause for concern.
- During this period, when lying on your back for a long time, the large belly compresses a large vein. Blood circulation is impaired. Accordingly, it is better to sleep on your side or with a pillow
- The body is preparing for childbirth. After 37 weeks, a woman’s body is ready for the birth of a child and makes it clear in every possible way
- Decreased blood glucose. This occurs due to eating sweets and simple carbohydrates. Eating infrequently may cause dizziness. Try to eat small portions, but often
Feeling dizzy in 3rd trimester
Prevention of dizziness in pregnant women
In order to avoid frequent attacks of dizziness, you must adhere to the following rules:
- Located in ventilated areas.
- Compliance with the daily diet.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- Do not make sudden movements.
- Regular walks in the fresh air.
- Maintaining a daily routine.
- Don't sleep on your back.
- Do not take hot baths.
- Avoid emotional turmoil.
- Physical therapy classes under the supervision of a trainer.
- During the day, set physical minutes and introduce daytime naps.
- Take medications prescribed by your doctor and do not self-medicate.
- Take enough liquid.
- Eliminate foods that contain caffeine from your diet.
Is severe dizziness dangerous during pregnancy?
If you often feel slightly dizzy and unwell, then this does not threaten your baby in any way. But fainting and loss of consciousness after dizziness require consultation with a doctor.
Fainting can be caused by the following illnesses:
- Vegetovascular dystonia
- Low blood pressure
- Diabetes
If you faint frequently, tell your doctor. Once the cause is determined, dizziness can be avoided. So, for low blood pressure, tincture of Eleutherococcus may be prescribed, and for dystonia, sedatives.
My head is spinning
Dizziness during pregnancy: what to do?
Initially, try to find out the reason why you are feeling dizzy.
- Try to avoid places with large crowds of people
- Change your body position frequently
- Try not to get up abruptly
- Take a contrast shower
- Be sure to move a lot and drink enough water
- Follow your diet. Reduce the amount of carbohydrates in the menu and eat smaller meals
- Give up bad habits
Feeling dizzy during pregnancy
Constant dizziness during pregnancy: is it worth worrying about?
If dizziness occurs only at the beginning of pregnancy, there is no need to worry. But if you often feel dizzy in the middle, you should worry. Iron and oxygen deficiency not only worsens your condition. This may affect the child's development.
- In case of serious pathologies and constant oxygen deficiency, frozen pregnancy may occur
- The fetus simply stops developing. In this case, spontaneous abortion does not occur
- Possible weak labor. Accordingly, the midwife and doctor will have to apply forceps or perform a caesarean section
- If there is a lack of iron and oxygen, a woman may give birth to a child with various pathologies. The most common conditions are hypoxia and encephalopathy.
Constant dizziness
What to do if you feel dizzy during pregnancy?
- If dizziness occurs from time to time, try not to get out of bed suddenly in the morning
- Ask your husband to bring you juice and a banana. You can leave an orange on the nightstand in the evening. Citrus fruits reduce dizziness and vomiting
- Try to use public transport not during work transportation
- Ventilate your apartment regularly. It is best to do this 2 times a day
- Drink rosehip decoction. It increases hemoglobin and improves well-being
- Get out of bed 10 minutes after you wake up
I'm feeling dizzy
. Don't worry. Excitement increases dizziness and toxicosis. Consult your gynecologist.
Treatment methods for dizziness in pregnant women
It is often necessary to use medications to eradicate the problem.
Treatment options depend on the following factors:
- Cause of dizziness.
- General condition of the body.
- The presence of other diseases.
- Gestational age.
Medications
Dizziness during pregnancy caused by toxicosis will decrease if you eliminate or try to alleviate the intoxication; in this case, antiemetic drugs are used for treatment.
For example:
- Cerucal is a tablet containing metoclopromide. The drug is taken 30 minutes before the start of the meal. You need to take 1 tablet 2 times a day. The duration of the drug is determined by the doctor based on individual indicators. The instructions indicate that the drug is contraindicated during pregnancy, but in practice doctors prescribe it after the 12th week of pregnancy. The price of the drug in Russia varies from 100 rubles. and higher depending on the region where the medicine was purchased.
- Motilium is a homogeneous suspension intended for oral administration. The active substance is domperidone. The purpose of the drug is against vomiting and eliminating signs of nausea. The drug is taken before meals. The course of treatment is 7 days. The daily dose should not exceed 30 ml. The instructions indicate that currently not enough information has been collected on the effect of the active substance on the fetus. The price in Russia varies from 580 rubles. and higher.
The cause of dizziness is anemia, in this case you should take drugs that replenish iron reserves. Sorbifer Durules are tablets containing ferrous sulfate and ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid plays the role of an enzyme that improves the absorption of trace elements in the body.
The drug must be taken in the morning and evening, 1 tablet. The use of the drug is carried out until the level of iron in the body is completely restored. Low hemoglobin can indicate a lack of iron in the body.
Hemoglobin levels depend on the trimester of pregnancy:
- 1st trimester : 112 – 160 g/l;
- 2nd trimester : 108 – 144 g/l;
- 3rd trimester : 100 – 140 g/l.
During treatment, it is periodically necessary to examine the blood to identify indicators of the presence of iron. The price of sorbifer in Russia varies from 390 rubles. and higher. If the cause of dizziness is a headache, then the pregnant woman can take a painkiller - drotaverine. Tablets are taken 2 times a day, 1 tablet per dose. The course lasts from 5 to 10 days.
Indications for use:
- Convulsions of cerebral vessels.
- Spasms of the arteries of the lower and upper extremities.
- Decreased excitability of the uterus.
- Convulsions of the uterine pharynx during childbirth.
- Afterpains.
- Risk of miscarriage.
Traditional methods
Traditional methods will help get rid of dizziness if its cause lies in toxicosis. Ginger and honey are a lifesaver for a weakened pregnant woman. Honey not only relieves nausea, but is also a storehouse of vitamins. It contains vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamins H, E, K, C.
But it should be borne in mind that in the last stages honey can provoke premature birth, and consumption in large quantities can lead to miscarriage. In everything you need to know when to stop. In order to get rid of nausea on an empty stomach, you need to eat 1 tbsp. l. honey or drink water with honey in small portions throughout the day; if desired, you can add cinnamon.
Ginger is an excellent remedy for eliminating the symptoms of toxicosis, but it should not be consumed in large quantities. It can cause a miscarriage. Ginger can be added to tea or a small piece dissolved in the mouth instead of candy. Recipe for making tea. Ingredients: honey, ginger, lemon, water. 2 tbsp. l. chopped ginger combined with 2 tbsp. l. honey and juice of ½ lemon.
All ingredients are poured into 1 liter of water. Cooking time – 30 minutes. The resulting drink is consumed every morning before meals. In addition to eliminating toxicosis, tea strengthens the immune system and helps fight colds. It is not recommended to exceed the indicated dosage so as not to provoke an allergy.
Contraindications for use:
- Heat.
- Allergy.
- Increased blood pressure.
- Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Stomach ulcer.
- Chocystolithiasis.
Tea with the addition of mint and lemon balm effectively eliminates nausea, insomnia, and nervous tension. Mint and lemon balm leaves can be added to black or green tea, or prepared as a separate drink. 2 tbsp. l. herbs pour 200 ml of hot boiled water. Cooking time – 10 minutes. Before serving, dilute additionally with water to reduce the concentration of active substances.
Contraindications:
- Allergy.
- Low blood pressure.
Another remedy is juice. Ingredients: beets, carrots, pomegranate. Squeeze juice from each fruit separately. Combine all ingredients in equal proportions. Take 3 times a day, before meals. Take the juice fresh. The volume of a single serving is 100 ml.
Useful vitamins and microelements included in the drink:
- Iron (prevention of anemia).
- Calcium (prevention of rickets).
- Phosphorus.
- Iodine.
- Magnesium.
- Vitmains A, C, P, D, K.
Other methods
Ozone therapy is the process of intravenous administration of a saline solution enriched with ozone and oxygen. The procedure is harmless for both the expectant mother and the child. The drug is administered into the woman's body by drip. The session time is 30 minutes. The course includes 5-10 procedures, depending on the condition of the pregnant woman.
Throughout pregnancy, a woman can undergo no more than 2 courses of ozone therapy. Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a disease that is difficult to treat during pregnancy and leads to frequent dizziness.
Treatment methods:
- Massage.
- Healing Fitness.
Using massage movements in a problem area, you can eliminate numbness and normalize blood flow. Mechanical action relaxes the nerve endings. You need to massage your neck, legs, arms.
Massage must be performed by a qualified specialist, since there are abortive points on a woman’s body, massaging of which can lead to miscarriage or premature birth. Massage movements improve the flow of oxygen, which improves a woman’s well-being.
Dizziness during pregnancy, resulting from osteochondrosis, is treated with light physical exercise.
The result of the exercises is improved blood circulation and timely delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the central nervous system. Exercises must be performed under the supervision of a trainer. Classes are selected based on the stage of pregnancy.
Circular movements of the head are prohibited. Physical exercise should not create a strong load. The time to perform 1 exercise is 30 seconds, then you should rest. Additionally, you can use a neck brace to alleviate pain throughout the day. Relieving pain reduces the incidence of dizziness.
