Dizzy spells ‘could be an early sign of dementia’

DIZZY spells could be an early sign of dementia or Parkinson’s, researchers warn.

Those who feel faint for several minutes after standing up may be at risk of a blood pressure condition that may lead to a degenerative brain disease or even early death, according to a study.

Although some medicines or dehydration can cause light headedness, a recurrent problem may be an indicator of an illness called orthostatic hypotension.

US scientists looked at patients with a milder form called delayed orthostatic hypotension, which occurs when a drop in blood pressure happens more than three minutes after standing or sitting up. Over ten years, 54 per cent progressed to the more serious form – orthostatic hypotension – when the onset of dizziness happens more quickly.

However, 31 per cent also developed a brain disease such as Parkinson’s disease or dementia.

Experts at Harvard Medical School reviewed the medical records of 165 people with an average age of 59 over ten years. They found the chance of early death rose from 29 per cent to 50 per cent in those who progressed from the delayed condition to orthostatic hypotension.

Diabetics with the minor form were also more likely to develop the full condition. Writing in the journal Neurology, Dr Christopher Gibbons said: ‘Our findings may lead to earlier recognition, diagnosis and treatments of this condition and possibly other underlying diseases that may contribute to early death.’