The Many Possible Causes of Dizziness

If you've ever felt dizzy, you know how unsettling and disorienting that whirling, spinning sensation can be. Dizziness is a common complaint that can arise from many different underlying causes in the body. While usually not a sign of something life-threatening, dizziness can significantly impact your daily activities and quality of life. Let's explore some of the major causes of dizziness.

Cardiac Causes The heart and vascular system play a vital role in supplying oxygen-rich blood to the brain and inner ear, which are key for maintaining balance and equilibrium. Certain cardiac conditions can lead to dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation). These include:

• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms)

• Heart failure

• Drop in blood pressure upon standing up (postural hypotension)

• Narrowing or blockages of the arteries supplying blood to the brain

If dizziness is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms, it's crucial to seek prompt medical attention as it could signal a heart attack or stroke.

Vestibular Causes The vestibular system in the inner ear is like your body's gyroscope, constantly sending signals to the brain about your head's movements and position. Vestibular disorders that can induce dizziness and vertigo include:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV): A mechanical issue where calcium particles become dislodged in the inner ear canals.

• Meniere's disease: Excessive fluid buildup in the inner ear.

• Labyrinthitis: Inflammation of the inner ear, often due to a viral infection.

• Vestibular neuritis: Inflammation of the vestibular nerve.

Vestibular Migraine For some, dizziness and vertigo are actually manifestations of a type of migraine called vestibular migraine. People with vestibular migraine often experience vertigo episodes along with headaches, light/sound sensitivity, nausea and vomiting. The vertigo can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few days.