If you find yourself feeling a little unsteady while gardening or out for a walk at Scarborough Park, you may wonder if it’s something serious. Dizziness is a common symptom of many different conditions, some of which are more serious than others.
One of the most common causes of dizziness is vertigo caused by an inner ear condition.
Dizziness Caused by Inner Ear Problems
While vertigo and dizziness are often considered to mean the same thing, vertigo is actually a specific sensation that causes the feeling that either you or your environment is moving or spinning, despite the lack of any actual movement. It’s often the result of a problem with the inner ear or the brain. The condition is quite common, with research showing that dizziness including vertigo affects about 15% to over 20% of adults yearly.
The most common cause of vertigo is called benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPPV). BBPV involves intense but sporadic episodes of vertigo that are triggered by a change in head position.
In addition to vertigo, BPPV may cause a loss of balance, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms are usually brief but intense, lasting under a minute.
Other inner ear problems that can cause dizziness include Meniere’s disease, labyrinthitis and vestibular neuronitis.
Other Causes of Dizziness
In addition to ear-related issues, a plethora of other factors may cause you to feel dizzy. These include but are not limited to:
- Migraines
- Low blood pressure
- Certain medications
- Neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis
- Dehydration
- Anxiety
- Circulation problems
- Anemia
- Low blood sugar
- Food allergies
- Motion sickness
- Heat exposure or heatstroke
Seeing a Doctor When You Feel Dizzy
Because dizziness has so many potential different causes with different degrees of severity, a full medical evaluation by your doctor is a good idea if you’re experiencing persistent symptoms.
If your symptoms are thought to be caused by an inner ear issue like BPPV, you will likely be referred to a balance specialist. They will utilize head maneuvers to relieve symptoms. It’s possible that vertigo symptoms may resolve on their own as well.
Other treatments for dizziness may include medications, making dietary changes, or surgical procedures, depending on the cause.
In certain cases, dizziness can indicate a medical emergency. If your symptoms are accompanied by a persistent headache or vomiting, a fever, blurred vision, neck pain, sudden hearing loss, numbness or weakness in the limbs, facial paralysis or chest pain, seek medical help immediately.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Benjamin Liess MD today.