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Dizziness

Overview

Dizziness is a common symptom that can feel different for different people. It may appear as spinning sensation of the head, imbalance while walking, light-headedness due to postural hypotension, faintness, or blurring of vision. 

People may describe dizziness in different ways, such as:

  • Sensation of spinning or moving around (vertigo)
  • Unsteadiness or imbalance while walking
  • Blurred vision
  • Light-headedness on standing (postural hypotension – sudden drop in blood pressure)
  • Feeling faint or about to lose consciousness

Dizziness can result from problems in the ear, brain, heart, or circulation. Common causes include:

  • Inner ear problems like BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo), Labyrinthitis (ear infection), vestibular migraine, Meniere’s disease
  • Posterior circulation strokes
  • Anxiety or panic attacks
  • Adverse drug reaction
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
  • Autonomic disturbances (problems with the nervous system that controls blood pressure and heart rate)
  • Syncopal attacks (fainting)
  • Seizures

Tests are chosen based on suspected cause and may include:

  • Clinical examination and medical history
  • Pure tone audiometry: test for hearing loss and inner ear function
  • MRI brain and angiography: to check blood flow and rule out stroke
  • ECG (electrocardiogram): heart rhythm test
  • Holter monitoring: 24-hour ECG to detect intermittent arrhythmias
  • Autonomic nervous testing: to check blood pressure and heart rate control
  • EEG (electroencephalogram): to rule out seizures

Treatment depends on underlying cause. It may include:

  • Symptomatic relief: medications to reduce spinning sensation, nausea, or imbalance
  • Treating the root cause: such as controlling migraines, adjusting medications, managing heart conditions, or treating ear infections
  • Lifestyle adjustments: adequate hydration, stress management, improving sleep, avoiding sudden posture changes

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Sudden, severe dizziness or spinning sensation
  • Dizziness associated with fainting, chest pain, or palpitations
  • Difficulty walking, imbalance, or slurred speech
  • New vision or hearing changes

While not all causes are preventable, you can reduce your risk by:

  • Staying well-hydrated
  • Getting adequate sleep
  • Managing stress and anxiety
  • Avoiding sudden changes in posture

For diagnosis and management of dizziness, consult a Neurologist (specialist in brain and nerve disorders).

Disclaimer:

The information in this Health Library is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or before starting any treatment. Use of this site and its content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. In case of a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest emergency facility immediately.