Vertigo and Dizziness: What is the Difference and What to Do?

The terms dizziness and vertigo are often used interchangeably. However, recent evidence states that they are two very different sensations.

Dizziness can be defined as an altered sense of orientation or a distortion where your body is in space. It is often described as a sense of fogginess, unsteadiness, and even lightheadedness.

Vertigo is a more specific term that describes a false sense that you are either moving, or that your environment is moving. It is often described as a spinning sensation.

Both dizziness and vertigo are often accompanied by disequilibrium or imbalance that can affect a person’s mobility and increase their risk of falling. Depending on the underlying cause of the symptoms, vestibular rehabilitation can be very effective in eliminating or minimizing the symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, and imbalance.

Common Causes of Dizziness:

• Side effects of certain medications
• Cardiovascular issues such as large fluctuations in blood pressure or a sudden drop in blood pressure
• Labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, which causes weakness in the vestibular or balance nerve
• Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or Multiple Sclerosis
• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Normal aging
• Pregnancy and other hormonal changes 
• Anemia
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Dehydration and overheating
• Carbon monoxide poisoning

Common Causes of Vertigo:

• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), which is when crystals are loose in the inner ear
• Labyrinthitis or vestibular neuritis, which causes weakness in the vestibular or balance nerve
• Meniere’s disease
• Migraines
• Traumatic brain injuries

A common misconception, especially among the elderly, is that dizziness or vertigo is a normal process of aging and that you have to learn to live with. On the contrary, both dizziness and vertigo can be managed medically or via vestibular rehabilitation. Physical therapy is proven to be effective in treating patients with vertigo, dizziness, and imbalance that is either originating from the inner ear, brain, or the neck. 

Sheltering Arms Institute has a team of vestibular specialists who may be able to help you treat your symptoms. If you are experiencing vertigo or dizziness, discuss your symptoms with your doctor and they can direct your care to the most appropriate healthcare professionals.  

To request an appointment with one of our balance and vertigo specialists, visit shelteringarmsinstitute.com/contact-us or call (804) 764-1000.