Dizziness

Dizziness

Dizziness is a common yet concerning symptom that affects individuals of all ages. It is often described as a sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or a spinning feeling (vertigo). While dizziness itself is not a disease, it can be a sign of an underlying neurological or vestibular disorder. The Neuro Medicine department at Heritage Hospital specializes in diagnosing and treating dizziness to ensure optimal neurological health and balance restoration.

Causes of Dizziness

Dizziness can be caused by various neurological, vestibular, cardiovascular, and metabolic conditions. Some of the primary causes include:

1. Neurological Disorders

• Vestibular Migraine: A type of migraine that affects balance and causes dizziness without headache.
• Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A sudden loss of blood flow to the brain can cause dizziness, along with weakness, speech issues, or vision problems.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This neurological condition affects nerve function and can lead to episodes of dizziness or imbalance.
• Parkinson’s Disease: Dizziness and imbalance are common in Parkinson’s due to the impact on motor functions.

2. Inner Ear Disorders (Vestibular Causes)

• Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): A condition where calcium deposits in the inner ear disrupt balance.
• Meniere’s Disease: A disorder of the inner ear that causes vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss.
• Vestibular Neuritis or Labyrinthitis: Infections or inflammation of the vestibular nerve leading to dizziness and imbalance.

3. Cardiovascular Conditions

• Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): A sudden drop in blood pressure can lead to dizziness or fainting.
• Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms can reduce blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness.
• Atherosclerosis: Narrowing of the arteries can decrease oxygen supply to the brain, triggering dizziness.

4. Other Contributing Factors

• Dehydration: Lack of fluids can cause dizziness due to low blood volume.
• Anemia: Low red blood cell count reduces oxygen supply, leading to dizziness.
• Medication Side Effects: Certain drugs, including sedatives, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can cause dizziness.
• Anxiety Disorders: Chronic stress and panic attacks can cause dizziness and lightheadedness.

Symptoms of Dizziness

Dizziness is a broad term and can manifest in different ways, including:

• A sensation of spinning (vertigo)
• Feeling lightheaded or faint
• Loss of balance or unsteadiness
• Floating or woozy feeling
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty concentrating

Diagnosis of Dizziness

At Heritage Hospital, our specialists conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of dizziness. The diagnostic process includes:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination

• Understanding the patient’s symptoms, duration, and triggers.
• Checking for underlying conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, or neurological disorders.

2. Specialized Tests

• Neurological Examination: Evaluating coordination, balance, reflexes, and eye movement.
• Vestibular Function Tests: Includes the Dix-Hallpike maneuver for BPPV and vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMP) tests.
• Imaging Tests: MRI or CT scans to check for stroke, tumors, or MS.
• Hearing Tests (Audiometry): To assess inner ear function.
• Blood Tests: To detect anemia, infection, or vitamin deficiencies.

Treatment for Dizziness

The treatment for dizziness depends on its root cause. Our Neuro Medicine specialists at Heritage Hospital provide personalized treatment plans, including:

1. Medications

• Vestibular suppressants: Such as meclizine or benzodiazepines for vertigo.
• Migraine medications: For patients with vestibular migraines.
• Anti-nausea drugs: To relieve dizziness-related nausea and vomiting.
• Blood pressure medications: If hypertension is the cause.

2. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)

• A specialized therapy to retrain the brain and improve balance.
• Beneficial for BPPV, vestibular neuritis, and Meniere’s disease.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

• Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet.
• Avoiding sudden head movements and triggers like bright lights.
• Practicing stress management techniques like meditation and yoga.

4. Surgical and Advanced Procedures

• Canalith Repositioning Maneuvers: For BPPV to move displaced inner ear crystals.
• Cochlear Implants or Hearing Aids: If hearing loss is a contributing factor.
• Surgery: In rare cases where a tumor or structural issue affects balance.

When to Seek Medical Help?

Seek immediate medical attention if dizziness is accompanied by:

• Sudden severe headache
• Slurred speech or difficulty walking
• Chest pain or irregular heartbeat
• Loss of consciousness

At Heritage Hospital, our expert Neuro Medicine team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating dizziness effectively, helping patients regain stability and quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent dizziness, visit us for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized care.