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    Causes of dizziness

    The causes of dizziness can vary wildly, but it is a common illness and often not serious. However, it may be a sign of a deeper medical issue, or a side-effect to medication, which requires specialist intervention. Identifying the cause is the first step toward effective treatment. 

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    • Symptoms of dizziness are typically described as:

      • A feeling you’re moving even when still
      • Feeling lightheaded or faint
      • Losing balance, either partially or completely
      • Wooziness or a need to sit down

      If you feel the room is spinning, this may indicate vertigo, a type of dizziness linked to the inner ear. 

    • There are many potential causes of dizziness, ranging from a symptom of another issue to mental health issues or medication side effects.

      The most common causes are:

      • Ear infections
      • Migraines
      • Circulation issues
      • Anaemia
      • Anxiety or panic disorders
      • Medication side effects

    • Dizziness can lead to fainting episodes or collapse - but rarely does dizziness suggest a life-threatening condition.

      However, you should seek urgent medical attention if dizziness occurs with:

      • Sudden pain, such as a severe headache or chest pain
      • Rapid heartbeat
      • Loss of feeling in the arms or legs
      • Seizures or fainting
      • Vomiting

    • You should see a specialist for your issues with dizziness if the problems are:

      • Long-lasting
      • Frequent
      • Impacting your quality of life

    • It is helpful to your consultants to outline how long the dizziness lasts or any potential triggers that you have noticed, as this can help them isolate the cause.

      For instance:

      • Is the dizziness ongoing, or does it happen in spells? How long do the spells last?
      • When you have a bout of dizziness, do you feel the room is spinning, or that you are spinning?
      • Do the symptoms come with double vision or trouble hearing?
      • Are you taking any medication, or have a history of health issues?
      • Have there been any major recent changes to your life?

    • Your consultant will ask about your symptoms, any medication you take, and that will likely be followed by a physical exam.

      When it comes to treatment to relieve the causes of dizziness, there are three main options.

      Medication:

      • Medication for vertigo, such as those which contain antihistamines and anticholinergics
      • Anti-anxiety medications, such as diazepam and alprazolam
      • Preventative migraine medication, including that provided by our headache management service

      Therapy:

      • Head positional therapy, a self-administered procedure that moves crystals in your ear canal to relieve dizziness
      • Balance therapy, such as vestibular therapy
      • Talk therapy, which can alleviate issues such as anxiety that lead to dizziness

      Other Treatment:

      • Injections of steroids may be recommended
      • Surgery (only in severe cases where other approaches have failed)

    • You can help reduce dizziness at home by:

      • Limiting caffeine, alcohol and salt
      • Avoiding tobacco
      • Staying hydrated
      • Getting enough sleep

    Private health insurance

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay arrangements are also available.

    Private assessment for dizziness in London

    Our Harley Street team is here to answer your questions and identify the causes of dizziness, and provide personalised treatment options. Request an appointment with us today. 

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    4. Causes of dizziness