Light Headed?

FOR MY BIGGEST WINNER TEAM 

or anyone that is having problems with getting light headed. 
Light Headed

Features: The sensation of feeling lightheaded is similar to feeling dizzy but without the sensation of the room spinning. Feeling lightheaded often feels like you are just about to faint. The main mechanism that leads feeling lightheaded, regardless of the underlying cause, is lack of blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Other symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue and confusion can accompany the sensation of feeling lightheaded.

Causes: Simple causes for feeling lightheaded can include dehydration, lack of food and overexertion. Lack of fluids in the body can cause the blood pressure to drop, which makes it difficult to get oxygen-carrying blood to your brain. Not eating enough can lead to not have enough glucose in your blood, a condition known as hypoglycemia. Your blood glucose, commonly referred to as your blood sugar, is the body's main source of fuel and you cannot function properly if your level falls too low. If you are overexerting yourself while exercising, your lungs and heart cannot get blood and oxygen to your brain fast enough, which can lead to feeling lightheaded. The same is also true if you are fatigued. In some cases, a more serious underlying condition may be responsible. Heart problems and high blood pressure are two common ailments that can make you feel lightheaded, especially during exercise. In addition, some medications can cause lowered blood pressure, which can lead to feeling lightheaded.

Prevention: Eat a smaller meal two to four hours before exercising to give your body the proper amount of fuel. If you forget to eat, consume a small snack no fewer than 30 minutes before exercising. Start to hydrate the day before strenuous exercise. Drink 1 to 3 cups of water right before exercise, and consume plenty of water during and after exercise. Drink a sports drink or water enhanced with electrolytes if you are participating in vigorous exercise. Get plenty of rest, and keep an even pace while exercising as heavy breathing during exercise increases your risk of feeling lightheaded. A general rule is if you can't talk and hold a conversation while you are exercising, you are working too hard.

Treatment: As soon you start to feel lightheaded during exercise, stop what you are doing and lie down so your head is level with your heart. This will allow for easier blood flow to your brain, which will get rid of the lightheaded feeling. Consume a small snack high in sugar or carbohydrates, such as orange juice or peanut butter and crackers, if you suspect hypoglycemia. Drink several cups of water to ensure proper hydration. If the lightheaded feeling continues despite rest and self-care, seek immediate medical attention.

Low Blood Sugar: Many people tend to eat less prior to a workout to prevent the discomfort of a full stomach. This especially applies to people who work out in the morning and assume the dinner from the night before will supply enough energy to exercise. The meal you ate eight to 12 hours before a workout will not provide adequate energy. You should eat a small snack high in carbohydrates within an hour before a workout. Bananas, whole grains, energy bars, milk and juice are excellent options to raise your blood sugar and avoid feeling lightheaded. Low blood sugar is a major cause for dizziness and fainting, so it is vital to fuel your body properly prior to exercising.

Dehydration: Sweating and activity cause your body to lose water, and if you are losing more than you put in, you will become dehydrated. Drinking a bottle of water at the gym may not be enough if you are already dehydrated prior to beginning your workout. If you feel thirsty at any point during the day, you should drink water or other clear liquids to keep your hydration up. Staying hydrated throughout the day could alleviate lightheadedness during exercise. Dehydration can also cause low blood pressure in some people, leading to severe lightheadedness and fainting.

Overexertion: When you feel lightheaded during a workout, it may be your body’s way of saying “slow down.” The reason for exhaustion may be due to the workout being too intense, stress, underlying illness or simply a lack of energy. Overexertion may also cause muscle weakness, headaches, cramps and heart palpitations. If you suspect you have pushed yourself too hard, slow your pace and drink water. You may also want to sit down and elevate your feet to improve circulation, which will help alleviate the lightheaded feeling.

Underlying Health Issues: Occasionally, lightheadedness while exercising can be caused by an underlying health issue such as heart disease. If you experience pain in your arms, jaws or chest, stop exercising immediately as this could be a sign of a heart problem. Another health issue that could cause lightheadedness during exercise is decreased lung function due to a blood clot, infection or other lung-related illness. Stop exercising if you feel like you are unable to get a good breath or if you have pain in your lungs. In these instances, it is advisable to seek medical care as soon as possible. Even in the absence of additional symptoms, lightheadedness warrants a trip to your doctor for a checkup to ensure that you are able to exercise safely.

I hope this helps for you! Let me know if it was useful!