Dizziness That Feels Like Spinning: Causes and What You Should Know
If you've ever experienced dizziness that feels like the world is spinning around you, you're not alone. This sensation, often referred to as vertigo, can be caused by a variety of factors — some perfectly normal, and others that may require medical attention. Understanding the root cause is essential for effective treatment and long-term relief.
Common Physiological Causes of Spinning Dizziness
Spinning sensations can sometimes be attributed to lifestyle-related factors. Lack of sleep, poor nutrition, dehydration, and physical exhaustion can all lead to temporary episodes of dizziness. When the body is deprived of essential nutrients or rest, the brain may not receive enough oxygen or glucose to function optimally. This can lead to feelings of lightheadedness or imbalance, especially during physical activity.
Potential Pathological Causes
However, if the dizziness is persistent or severe, it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Here are some common pathological causes of vertigo:
1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
BPPV is one of the most common causes of positional vertigo. It occurs when small calcium carbonate crystals (otoconia) in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the semicircular canals. Sudden changes in head position — like lying down, rolling over in bed, or looking up — can trigger brief but intense episodes of dizziness. Symptoms typically subside when lying still. Unlike other conditions, BPPV does not cause hearing loss or ringing in the ears. Treatment usually involves specific repositioning maneuvers like the Epley maneuver to guide the crystals back to their proper location.
2. Ménière's Disease
This chronic condition affects the inner ear and is characterized by episodes of vertigo that can last for hours. Ménière's disease is often accompanied by other symptoms such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears), a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, and fluctuating hearing loss. It's believed to be caused by an abnormal buildup of fluid in the inner ear, which disrupts balance and hearing signals sent to the brain.
3. Vestibular Neuritis
Often following a viral infection like a cold or flu, vestibular neuritis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve. This nerve is responsible for sending balance information from the inner ear to the brain. The condition typically causes sudden, persistent vertigo lasting more than 24 hours, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and difficulty with coordination. Unlike Ménière's disease, it doesn't usually affect hearing.
4. Cervical Spondylosis (Cervical Vertigo)
Certain types of neck problems — particularly vertebral artery insufficiency related to cervical spondylosis — can lead to dizziness. This occurs when the vertebral arteries, which supply blood to the brainstem and cerebellum, become compressed due to degenerative changes in the cervical spine. The result can be episodes of vertigo, especially with certain head movements.
5. Posterior Circulation Stroke
In older adults, especially those with risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, or atherosclerosis, sudden onset of vertigo can be a warning sign of a posterior circulation stroke. This type of stroke affects the blood supply to the back of the brain, which includes areas responsible for balance and coordination. Symptoms may include dizziness, nystagmus (involuntary eye movements), ataxia (loss of muscle coordination), and double vision. Immediate medical attention is crucial in these cases.
Other Serious Conditions to Consider
In rare cases, dizziness that feels like spinning could be related to neurological conditions such as cerebellar hemorrhage, acoustic neuroma (a benign tumor on the vestibular nerve), or brainstem melanoma. These conditions interfere with the brain's ability to process balance signals, resulting in severe vertigo. If you experience sudden, unexplained vertigo — especially if it's accompanied by neurological symptoms like slurred speech, facial drooping, or limb weakness — seek emergency medical care immediately.
What You Should Do
If you experience persistent or severe episodes of vertigo, it's important to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. A doctor may perform a physical exam, hearing tests, imaging studies like MRI or CT scans, and specialized balance assessments to determine the cause. Early diagnosis is key to effective management.
Until a clear diagnosis is made, it's best to avoid using over-the-counter or prescription medications designed to suppress vertigo symptoms. While these drugs may offer temporary relief, they can also mask underlying issues and delay appropriate treatment.