Dizziness With Barometric Pressure

The measurement of the earth's gravitational pull on the air is called barometric pressure. Changes in air pressure, especially rapid changes, affect the body. One of the more common symptoms noted is dizziness with a barometric pressure change.

Cause

• The dizziness is caused by the change of air pressure on the ear. This can affect one or both ears. The symptom is attributed to a difference between the pressure outside of the ear and inside.

Related Symptoms

• Changes in air pressure also can cause the feeling of plugged ears, ear pain, an ear popping sensation, and, in some cases, headaches or migraines.

Examples

• Examples of situations where barometric pressure changes may cause dizziness include: riding in an elevator or airplane, traveling in mountain areas, skin and sky diving and drastic weather changes.

Relief

• To relieve the ear-related symptoms of air pressure, try chewing gum, yawning or swallowing forcefully.

Caution

• If you are prone to dizziness during barometric pressure fluctuations, prepare ahead of time. Avoid traveling while suffering from a cold or flu, as this can increase the symptoms. Avoid driving in mountain areas.

  If the symptoms last for an extended period, you may need to visit a doctor; there may be damage to the ear.