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Reasons for Dizziness

Dizziness, which is also referred to as lightheadedness, can happen to anyone at any time, often without warning. Dizziness often goes away without any medical treatment, but dizziness that is followed by fainting or that results in an injury may require medical evaluation to determine the cause. Consider this information derived from the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine about the reasons for dizziness.

  1. Ear Disorders

    • Disorders of the ears, also referred to as vestibular disorders, may cause symptoms such as dizziness and vertigo. A middle ear infection (otitis media) is a common reason for dizziness in children, although adults may get them as well. Labyrinthitis and vestibular neuronitis are ear disorders caused by viral infections and can cause dizziness.

    Heart Disease

    • Various types of heart disease can cause problems with blood flow in the brain and are a reason for dizziness. An irregular heartbeat or sudden drop in blood pressure may result from disease of the heart and arteries and can cause dizziness. Sudden dizziness is a symptom of stroke and requires emergency medical treatment.

    Injuries

    • Injuries to the head and brain may cause dizziness and other symptoms such as confusion and loss of consciousness. An auto accident or a fall that results in hitting the head, especially around the ears, are reasons for dizziness. Injuries caused by medications or environmental toxins can damage nerves in the ear and result in dizziness as well.

    Nerve Disorders

    • Disorders and damage to the nerves of the ears, skin and brain are common reasons for dizziness. If the sensory nerves in the skin and muscles are unable to communicate body position to the brain, dizziness may occur. Damage from noise, fluid or older age to the nerves in the inner ear that sense motion are also reasons for dizziness.

    Psychological Disorders

    • Psychological disorders including anxiety and stress may be a reason for dizziness, especially before and during stressful events. Dizziness is a symptom of anxiety disorders including panic attacks and agoraphobia, which is a fear of being outside. Experiencing sudden trauma or grief are emotions that may cause unexpected dizziness.

    Visual Disorders

    • Visual disorders or an inability to see the outside when you are in a moving vehicle are reasons for dizziness and can lead to motion sickness. Moving or changing positions quickly, especially when first getting up in the morning may cause your eyes to not process information correctly, and lead to dizziness. Migraines with an aura may be a reason for dizziness, and dizziness can also occur between migraine attacks.

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