Should i go to the emergency room or make a doctor appointment i started feeling lightheaded two days ago but it is not consistent; off and on. first time i noticed it i was in front of my computer and i had been doing work for a couple of hours. i thou

Going : Going to an emergency room is good if you are bleeding heavily, have broken bones or having a heart attack. Ers are very expensive and you'll have to wait a long time to be seen. They will recommend that the best thing to do is to get an appointment with your primary care doctor or go to one of the little quick care places that are popping up all over. Docs and the like. This could be a blood pressure thing , a blood sugar thing or a number of things that a good history and physical (with lab work) will diagnose. I would also get up from the computer more often and stand in place for a second until the blood gets back to your head.

You : You have not specified your age or gender. Depending on those, any number of possibilities are likely: blood pressure swings, eye problems, hormonal imbalances (especially, low or high thyroid states for women over 50 years of age), or even brief episodes of abnormal heart rate or rhythm. Addiiotnally, low blood counts (anemia) may be contributing. The occurence of symptoms with activity is a bit more worrisome than at rest: many people may have dizziness or even pass out after prolonged sitting or standing due to pooling of bloo din the legs but activity -related dizziness is usualkly due to other cause. Finally, dehydration may result in dizziness or exacerbate other underlying conditions. My advice: 1) limit caffeine/alcohol, 2) increase hydration, 3) avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and 4) get a routine physical and blood work with your physician (including the electrocardiogram).