Dizziness and Vertigo: Causes, Management and When to Seek Help

Dizziness and vertigo are common symptoms, but they can be unsettling and often require careful evaluation. Vertigo is the sensation that you or your surroundings are moving or spinning, while dizziness may involve lightheadedness or a feeling of imbalance.

Common Causes:

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A common cause of vertigo, BPPV occurs when tiny calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged, affecting balance.
Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: Infections of the inner ear that can cause vertigo, often accompanied by nausea and balance problems.
Meniere’s Disease: A condition that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
Migraine-Associated Vertigo: Some people experience vertigo as part of a migraine, even without a headache.
Low blood pressure or dehydration can also cause dizziness or lightheadedness.

Management and Treatment:

Vestibular rehabilitation exercises may help those with ongoing dizziness or balance problems.
Epley manoeuvre is a technique used to treat BPPV by repositioning the calcium crystals in the ear.
Medications such as antihistamines or anti-nausea drugs may help manage symptoms during an episode.
Lifestyle changes like staying hydrated, avoiding sudden head movements, and improving sleep can also help.

When to See an ENT Specialist: If dizziness or vertigo is frequent, severe, or accompanied by symptoms such as hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or headache, it’s important to see an ENT consultant. We can help identify the cause and provide targeted treatments to improve your balance and quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are key for managing these conditions effectively.