Do You Often Feel Dizzy? It Could Be Vertigo — Know Its Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

If you frequently feel dizzy, lightheaded, or as if the room is spinning, it could be a sign of Vertigo—a condition related to issues in the inner ear or brain. Let’s understand everything important about Vertigo: its causes, symptoms, types, treatment, and prevention.

🌀 What Is Vertigo?

Vertigo is not a disease itself—it is a symptom of an underlying health condition. People with vertigo feel like they or their surroundings are spinning, even when everything is still.

❗ Common Symptoms of Vertigo

If you notice 3 or more of these symptoms frequently, consult a doctor:

1. Spinning sensation (as if the room is moving)
2. Dizziness or lightheadedness
3. Loss of balance or unsteadiness
4. Nausea or vomiting
5. Headache
6. Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
7. Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
8. Sweating
9. Hearing loss in one or both ears

🔍 Main Causes of Vertigo

Vertigo can be caused by various problems. The two major types are:

1. Peripheral Vertigo (most common)

Caused by problems in the inner ear or vestibular nerve, such as:

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) – triggered by specific head movements.
• Meniere’s Disease – buildup of fluid in the inner ear.
• Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis – infection or inflammation of the inner ear.

2. Central Vertigo

Caused by problems in the brain (particularly the cerebellum):

• Stroke
• Brain tumors
• Multiple sclerosis
• Migraine-associated vertigo

🧪 How Vertigo Is Diagnosed

Doctors may use:

• Physical examination (e.g., Dix-Hallpike maneuver)
• MRI or CT scans (to rule out brain issues)
• Hearing and balance tests
• Blood tests (to rule out infections or deficiencies)

💊 Treatment Options for Vertigo

Treatment depends on the cause:

✅ For Peripheral Vertigo:

• Vestibular rehabilitation exercises
• Canalith repositioning maneuvers (e.g., Epley maneuver)
• Antihistamines or anti-nausea medications
• Low-salt diet (for Meniere’s disease)
• Steroids or antibiotics (if inflammation or infection is involved)

✅ For Central Vertigo:

• Treat the underlying brain condition
• Physical therapy
• Medications for migraines or neurological conditions

🚫 Prevention Tips for Vertigo

• Stay hydrated
• Avoid sudden head movements
• Manage stress and anxiety
• Get enough sleep
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Treat ear infections promptly
• Maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure

⚠️ When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate medical help if:

• Dizziness is sudden and severe
• You experience slurred speech, weakness, or vision problems
• There’s hearing loss or ringing in the ears
• Symptoms last more than a few days

Summary