Dizziness? Vertigo? Disequilibrium? Have you awarded them the banner of unwelcome visitors?
We agree, you’re absolutely right! They’re definitely not fun experiences on this rollercoaster known as perimenopause / menopause.
And if that last word – disequilibrium – sounds unfamiliar, you’re not alone.
But if you try breaking it up so it becomes dis-equilibrium, we imagine equilibrium’s far more familiar to you. – it means a state of balance.
And disequilibrium is the opposite – unbalanced – and it’s a close relation of dizziness and vertigo.
The three go hand in hand for our purposes.
Why?
Because they’re very common during perimenopause.
When I thought about it, I realised dizziness had been one of my first signs of perimenopause, although I had no idea at the time.
I remember it well. What’s more, I was speaking with a naturopath friend on the ‘phone when I had a dizzy spell. When I mentioned it to her, she said I’d probably moved too quickly. (I was on the bed lying down and sat up.) Even wearing her naturopath hat, she didn’t connect the dots with dizziness at perimenopause, and I certainly didn’t.
Dizziness, vertigo and feeling off-balance can all be signs of perimenopause.
What do ‘the dizzies’ feel like?
The sensation of dizziness can be a feeling that everything is spinning, a loss of balance or feeling as if you’re going to faint. Indeed, it may occur as the result of another peri sign such as a panic attack or anxiety. Subsequently, your breathing and heart rate levels become rapid, disturbing the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain.
There are three types of dizziness at perimenopause:
- Lightheadedness – when you feel a bit woo-woo or faint.
- Vertigo – when the room feels like it’s spinning.
- Disequilibrium – when you feel unbalanced or unsteady on your feet.
What causes dizziness/vertigo during perimenopause?
That’s the $64,000 question.
Researchers don’t fully understand the connection. It could simply be a part of ageing. But issues linked with the hormonal fluctuations of midlife, to do with the middle ear, blood sugar levels, and migraines may also be a cause.
It’s not news that the reproductive hormones estrogen, progesterone and testosterone change a heck of a lot during perimenopause. As a result, many bodily functions, including the aforementioned as well as blood pressure, circulation, blood vessels, stress response and the cardiovascular and nervous systems can be affected.
Estrogen (estradiol) keeps all of these things ticking along nicely premenopause, but hormonal fluctuations can create havoc and bring on ‘the dizzies’. Moreover, estrogen also keeps many brain processes regulated via the HPATG (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-thyroid) axis. But when hormonal levels decline, this axis can go off-balance. And the next thing you know? Dizzy spell.
Are you getting the picture? Dizziness can be complicated. So let’s take a look at some of the common menopause-related causes.
Body temperature surges
Something like 80 percent of women going through perimenopause experience hot flushes. If you can relate, then you clearly understand why they’re difficult. To explain further, this study talks about the link between body temperature and menopause-related dizziness. Additionally, research has shown that women who experience fluctuations in body temperature may also be more prone to feelings of dizziness or vertigo.
Migraines
We’ve heard from many in our treasured community who suffer from hormonal headaches or migraines. And while we always dislike being the bearers of bad news, we need to share that they can be triggered by perimenopause. Furthermore, if you have a past history, they may even become worse. Indeed, if you’ve ever experienced a severe migraine, you don’t need us to tell you dizziness can be a side effect.
Related: Migraines & Perimenopause | Why You’ve Got A Headache
Fatigue
There aren’t many of us (I’d venture to say none) who haven’t gone without sleep at least once in our lives. Therefore, it’s pretty safe to say that we know how fatigue can make us feel off-kilter. And because sleep issues and insomnia are common menopausal signs it’s not difficult to see why this could be a contributing factor.
Blood sugar
Our blood sugar levels are closely linked with our hormones. Moreover, the estrogen and progesterone changes of perimenopause/menopause can have a direct effect on our body’s response to insulin. Consequently, this can lead to unstable blood sugar levels, which in turn may lead to dizzy moments.
The middle ear factor
Most of us don’t realise that female hormone changes can affect our inner ears, aka the vestibular system. It’s why one of the signs of peri/menopause can be tinnitus or an incessant ringing in the ears. In addition, this area of the body is critical to our sense of balance. So it makes sense that if it’s not in optimal health, vertigo or disequilibrium may be the result.
Ageing
As we mentioned earlier, while dizziness may be due to hormonal factors, it could also be a sidekick of ageing. Furthermore, dizziness is more prevalent in both older men and women, though the incidence is more common in women. More research is needed to discover why, so we’ll look forward to that.
When will this dizziness end?
We have good news :-). For many women, dizziness improves once they move through the menopause transition and hormone fluctuations settle. Once you reach post-menopause, it should stop. One caveat though: since dizzy episodes can occur for other reasons, they may still occur.
Did you know? Simple dehydration can cause dizziness so ensure you’ve drunk your H2O.
What can you do for dizziness at perimenopause?
A few simple shifts could tone down your dizziness if it’s for minor reasons:
- Ensure you’re well hydrated. This is even more crucial when your body’s going through the changes of the menopause years. At least eight glasses a day should keep you well topped up. Herbal teas are great too, particularly in cooler seasons.
- Try ginger tea. It’s super tasty and anti-inflammatory, which is helpful if you suffer joint and muscle pain. Grate fresh ginger and steep it in hot or boiling water.
- Eat well and regularly, including protein and healthy fats together to keep your blood sugar levels nice and stable.
- Choose whole food proteins like nuts and eggs and combine them with healthy fats and low glycemic index carbohydrates.
- Avoid processed and refined foods, particularly the ‘whites’ like sugar and flour.
- Relax. We can’t say it often enough. We often operate with chronic low-grade stress levels these days. Certainly, it’s usually for good reason, so if you can take some you-time, please do. Just 15 minutes of deep breathing or mindfulness will make a difference for your nervous system.
- Support your hormonal shifts with Merry Peri® or Perky Post®. They’re an evidence-based blend of nature and science. See more below.
NB: If you’re feeling dizzy, it’s best to check in with your doctor. There are many possible reasons, such as a sinus or viral infection, low blood pressure, low iron, or simply being dehydrated or hungry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perimenopause And Dizziness
Can perimenopause cause dizziness?
Yes. Dizziness is a recognised sign of perimenopause. Hormonal fluctuations can affect blood vessels, blood pressure, blood sugar, the nervous system and the inner ear, all of which may contribute to feeling dizzy or off-balance.
Can low estrogen cause dizziness?
Possibly. Estrogen influences many systems involved in balance, circulation and nervous system function. As estrogen levels fluctuate during perimenopause, some women notice dizziness, vertigo or feelings of disequilibrium.
What does perimenopause dizziness feel like?
It can feel like lightheadedness, feeling faint, the room spinning (vertigo), or a general sense of being unsteady on your feet.
How long does dizziness last during perimenopause?
It varies from person to person. Some women experience occasional episodes, while others notice dizziness more regularly during the menopause transition. Symptoms often improve once hormone fluctuations settle after menopause.
When should I see a doctor about dizziness?
You should seek medical advice if dizziness is severe, persistent, worsening, accompanied by chest pain, fainting, weakness, vision changes, or if you’re concerned about what’s causing it. Dizziness can have many causes besides perimenopause.
Thanks for this info. In relation to tinnitus – I have had it for years but after reading this I actually realise that in the last few months with peri-menopause coming on it has actually lessened. The “quiet” then loud “ringing” at intervals throughout the day that I had got used to only happens rarely now. Weird. Also in the last couple of years I have started to notice I get vertigo – never had it before. But was riding my ATV along a narrow ridge on a neighbours farm a couple of years back and suddenly everything started going a bit “blurry” had to stop the bike, then back back off ridge and take the long way around. This female thing is no fun!!!
Hi Tracy, that is weird that your tinnitus should lessen. That must have been frustrating for you as my cousin had it and she found it very difficult to cope. Agreed, this female thing can be challenging! Thanks for sharing your experience, it’s so helpful to others :-).