Why am I dizzy, and what should I do about it?

This article was written and provided by Brooke Steckelberg, Au.D., CCC-A, at St. Cloud ENT. 

Why am I dizzy, and what should I do about it?

Brooke Steckelberg, Au.D., CCC-A  Contributed photo

Our balance system is very complex and involves three main systems working together: the visual system, the vestibular (inner ear) system and the proprioceptive system (sensors in muscles, joints and tendons). Our brain integrates information from these systems to keep us upright and steady. If a problem occurs with any of these systems, it can lead to dizziness.  

Dizziness is a broad term used to describe all kinds of sensations. These include the sensation of spinning (vertigo), lightheadedness, imbalance, unsteadiness, motion sensitivity or feeling faint.

Common causes of dizziness are:

• Inner Ear: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, vestibular neuritis, Ménière’s disease

• Nervous System: Vestibular migraine, stroke/TIA, MS/tumors

• Cardiovascular: Dehydration, orthostatic hypotension, arrhythmia, anemia

• Psychogenic/Functional: Anxiety disorders, persistent postural-perceptual dizziness

• Unknown/Other: Medications, metabolic issues, concussions, nonspecific

If dizziness is sudden, severe or accompanied by ANY new neurologic, hearing, cardiac or visual symptoms, seek medical care immediately. It is important to see your primary care doctor if dizziness is persistent, interferes with daily life, is triggered by specific movements or puts you at risk of falling. They will evaluate and determine if you need further evaluation by specialty care, such as audiology/ENT, cardiology, neurology and/or physical therapy. 

At St. Cloud Ear, Nose & Throat, we have audiologists and otolaryngologists (ENTs) who specialize in the inner ear and balance system. 

You should be seen by our clinic if you have the following symptoms:

• Spinning triggered by head movements

• Dizziness when lying down or looking up 

• Veering or drifting sideways while walking

• Feeling like you’re on a boat

• Dizziness due to movement in cars, elevators or fast visual environments

• Unexplained dizziness lasting weeks or months

• Dizziness with pressure in one or both ears

• Dizziness with tinnitus, especially if in one ear

• Dizziness with sudden hearing loss

Several tests may be done to determine the cause of your dizziness, including:  

• Hearing Test: Many inner ear disorders, like Ménière’s disease or labyrinthitis, affect both hearing and balance.

• Video Head Impulse Test: It can identify abnormal eye movements that indicate canal dysfunction, which may cause vertigo or imbalance.

• Dix-Hallpike: This test diagnoses benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the most common cause of inner ear vertigo.

• Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials: This test helps detect inner ear dysfunction associated with vestibular neuritis and superior canal dehiscence.

• Videonystagmography: This test helps identify inner ear dysfunction or a problem with the central vestibular system. The central vestibular system includes the parts of the brain and brainstem that process signals from the inner ear, eyes and body to maintain balance and spatial orientation. Disorders of this system are less common, but they can be more serious.

Dizziness may be a common experience, but it is rarely something to ignore. Understanding its cause can help make sure you have the right care at the right time. With accurate diagnosis, targeted treatment and, when needed, rehabilitation, most people can regain their balance and confidence.

Find out more

If you are interested in learning more about inner ear health, please call St. Cloud ENT at (320) 252-0233 and schedule a visit with one of our audiologists.

“Ask the Expert” is sponsored content (paid advertising) provided by St. Cloud ENT. To learn how your business can promote its products and services like this, contact Sr. Perspective at 320-334-3344.