“Vertigo” is a specific type of dizziness that feels like true spinning, like a merry-go-round. Other people feel unsteady on their feet or feel like they might pass out. These symptoms can have different causes and need different treatments.
Because dizziness can come from more than one system, the first step is describing what the sensation feels like and when it happens.
When They May Cause More Harm Than Good
Balance comes from three systems working together: your inner ear, vision, and legs and feet. If one system is off, or if they don’t work well together, you may feel spinning, unsteadiness, or a faint sensation.
That’s why the same word “dizzy” can mean different things, and why testing can help pinpoint the source.
Common Causes Beyond Vertigo
Not all dizziness comes from the inner ear. Other causes may include:
- Feeling faint: sometimes linked to not getting enough blood flow to the brain, which can point to a heart-related issue
- Imbalance: feeling unsteady can be related to problems in the legs and feet, such as numbness from diabetic neuropathy
- Rare causes: tumors can cause balance symptoms, but they are uncommon
Even when the cause is not classic vertigo, many people still improve with the right plan.
Migraines That Can Affect Balance
Some people have dizziness spells tied to migraines, sometimes called vertebrobasilar migraines. Episodes can include vertigo-like symptoms, visual changes (like blurry vision or a “starry” pattern), and headaches.
Treatment focuses on the migraine as the cause. Medications such as calcium channel blockers may help reduce blood vessel spasms and make episodes happen less often.
How Balance Is Evaluated
A specialized test called posturography can help pinpoint the source of imbalance by measuring your balance responses on a moving platform with a screen.
This testing can help guide next steps, including whether therapy, medication, or additional evaluation is most appropriate.
Balance Therapy Can Help Many Causes
Balance therapy is a targeted form of physical therapy. It identifies what makes you unsteady and builds an exercise plan to strengthen the specific areas that need support.
Even when dizziness has different causes, balance therapy can improve confidence, reduce falls, and help people feel steadier over time.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Some dizziness symptoms need urgent evaluation. Seek immediate care if dizziness or vertigo is severe or comes with:
- Speech changes
- Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
- Sudden symptoms that raise concern for stroke
It is always appropriate to get checked if you feel concerned. If emergency causes are ruled out, there are many treatment options available.
Dizziness can be frustrating, but it is often treatable once the cause is identified. Valley Health can help evaluate balance issues, provide testing like posturography, and guide therapy or medication when needed.