Dizziness is a common symptom of stress and anxiety. Anxiety sufferers may experience light-headedness or vertigo when a panic attack occurs. Excessive visual stimulation as well can cause dizziness in those burdened with intense stress or worry.
Stress and Anxiety Statistics
According to the 2007 Stress and Anxiety Disorders Study, 48 percent of people surveyed said stress interfered with their daily activities, whereas 72 percent said stress interfered with their lives at least somewhat. Anxiety disorder affects approximately 40 million Americans.
Dizziness Statistics
Approximately 9 to 15 million Americans suffer from intermittent dizziness, whereas 3 million experience dizziness almost every day.
The Link Between Dizziness and Stress
According to a study performed by psychiatrist Jeffrey Staub, M.D., M.S., and neurotologist Michael Ruckenstein, M.D., of the Balance Center at University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, 60% of patients suffering from Chronic Subjective Dizziness (CSD) had anxiety disorder. The findings indicate that nearly one-third of patients experience dizziness as a result of anxiety and stress.
Diagnosis
In order to diagnose stress as the cause of a patient's dizziness, the primary care physician must rule out any other possible causes, such as a vestibular, neurological, pulmonary or cardiovascular condition.
Treatment
Dizziness caused by stress can be treated by relieving anxiety. Medication and psychotherapy, used in tandem or separately, can help to reduce stress and eliminate dizziness.
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