Dizziness is a common very non-specific complaint that has multiple causes that will not be addressed during this article. Some possible causes of dizziness include: dehydration, medications, anxiety, cardiac arrhythmias, electrolyte abnormalities, inner ear issues, etc. Dizziness can be described as feeling as if you will pass out, lightheaded or experiencing issues with walking.
Vertigo is a common cause of dizziness. Individuals usually complain that they feel like they are spinning, swaying or titling or like the room is moving around. These symptoms come and go and can last for minutes, hours or days. Inner ear problems such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, Meniere’s disease, Vestibular neuritis, heady injury or vestibular migraine) and other causes such as medication, and problems affecting the brain (i.e. stroke or multiple sclerosis)
Identifying the underlying cause for vertigo and treating the underlying issue is how this medical problem is addressed. However, this can take time. Symptoms that would prompt urgent treatment (going to the emergency room) include a new onset or severe (worst headache of my life) headache, high fever, trouble speaking or walking, chest pain, numbness/tingling, facial droop , and passing out.
If you are experiencing symptoms of vertigo or dizziness call your primary care doctor. If they are unable to see you or you do not have a PCP, call or text us at Compassion Primary, a direct primary care (dpc) practice. You can be seen as a non-member or become a member.
