Dizziness is a term used to describe a range of sensations such as lightheadedness, feeling faint, unsteady, or woozy. It can occur suddenly or be persistent and last for days or weeks. Dizziness can affect people of all ages and can have many causes.

Understanding the symptoms and causes of dizziness can help you seek appropriate treatment and prevent long-term complications.

What are the Symptoms of Dizziness?

The symptoms of dizziness can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include:.

Lightheadedness or feeling faint
Vertigo or sensation of spinning
Loss of balance or unsteadiness
Floating or swimming sensations
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Weakness or fatigue

What are the Causes of Dizziness?

Dizziness can have many causes. Some common causes include:.

Inner Ear Disorders

The inner ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and orientation.

Disorders of the inner ear, such as Ménière’s disease, vestibular neuritis, or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), can cause dizziness, vertigo, and loss of balance. Inner ear disorders may also cause hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and ear pain.

Low Blood Pressure

A sudden drop in blood pressure, also known as orthostatic hypotension, can cause dizziness when standing up from a sitting or lying position.

This condition is most common in people with low blood pressure or taking certain medications, such as alpha-blockers or beta-blockers. Dehydration, heart problems, and endocrine disorders such as diabetes or adrenal insufficiency can also cause low blood pressure and dizziness.

Anxiety and Stress

Emotional or psychological stress, as well as anxiety disorders such as panic attacks, can cause dizziness. Stress and anxiety can lead to hyperventilation, which can cause a decrease in carbon dioxide levels and alter blood flow to the brain.

Medications

Dizziness is a common side effect of many medications, including antibiotics, blood pressure drugs, sedatives, and antidepressants. Talk to your doctor if you experience dizziness after starting a new medication.

Neurological Disorders

Disorders that affect the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or stroke, can cause dizziness, vertigo, and loss of coordination. Migraine headaches are also a common cause of dizziness.

Anemia

Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to tissues and organs. Anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and dizziness, especially when standing up or exerting yourself.

The Bottom Line

Dizziness is a common symptom with many possible causes. While some cases of dizziness are temporary and resolve on their own, persistent or severe dizziness can indicate an underlying health condition that requires medical attention.

Talk to your doctor if you experience sudden or frequent dizziness, especially if you have other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness.