Dizziness and Vertigo — When It’s Time to Get Checked

Almost everyone experiences dizziness at some point, but not all dizziness is harmless. When dizziness or vertigo affects daily life or comes with other symptoms, it may require expert neurological evaluation.

Understanding Dizziness vs Vertigo

• Dizziness: A general sense of unsteadiness or lightheadedness

• Vertigo: A specific sensation that the room is spinning or moving
  

Various conditions can cause these sensations, including inner ear disorders, low blood pressure, or neurological issues.

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)

One common cause of brief, positional vertigo is BPPV, a benign inner ear condition. Sudden head movements can trigger a spinning sensation that lasts seconds to a minute.

Doctors often diagnose BPPV with simple positional tests (e.g., Dix–Hallpike) and treat it with physical maneuvers like the Epley maneuver, which help reposition tiny crystals in the inner ear that disrupt balance.

When to Seek Urgent Care

Seek immediate medical attention if dizziness or vertigo occurs with:

• Weakness or difficulty speaking

• Double vision or severe headache

• Fainting or loss of consciousness

• Chest pain or breathing difficulty
  

These may signal more serious causes, such as stroke or cardiac issues.

Managing Persistent Dizziness

For non‑emergency but persistent symptoms, a neurologist can:

• Perform diagnostic exams

• Recommend vestibular rehabilitation

• Adjust medications contributing to dizziness
  

Conclusion

Dizziness and vertigo often stem from benign causes, but knowing when to seek expert evaluation is critical. Early neurological consultation helps ensure accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment, improving daily functioning and safety.