Vertigo and Dizziness: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Have you ever felt the world spinning around you, even when you were perfectly still? This unsettling experience, often described as vertigo, can leave you feeling anxious and unsure about your health. Understanding this phenomenon is essential not only for managing it effectively but also for regaining control of your life.

Dizziness and vertigo are common complaints that can stem from various underlying causes, ranging from ear-related conditions to circulatory issues. We understand how challenging it can be to navigate the maze of symptoms and potential triggers, but knowing what you’re dealing with is the first step toward finding relief. As physical therapists, we’re here to guide you through the intricacies of these conditions and offer insights into treatments that prioritize your well-being.

In this article, we’ll explore the definitions, symptoms, and treatments for dizziness and vertigo. Together, we will uncover the common causes, the pathophysiology behind your symptoms, and the various management strategies that can help you reclaim your everyday activities. Let’s embark on this journey to better understand and manage your health!

Definitions and Distinctions

Dizziness and vertigo are terms often used interchangeably, but they describe different sensations. Dizziness is a general term for feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or faint. Vertigo, on the other hand, is a specific type of dizziness characterized by a spinning or whirling sensation, as if you or your surroundings are moving when they are not. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective treatment and management.

Understanding Dizziness

Dizziness can result from various factors, including dehydration, drops in blood pressure, or even stress. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed if you’re experiencing frequent dizziness. However, understanding its causes can be a first step toward addressing the issue. Dizziness might accompany conditions like an ear infection or vestibular neuritis, affecting your balance and coordination.

Understanding Vertigo

Vertigo typically relates to inner ear problems, such as positional vertigo or vestibular migraines. It’s the sensation of movement you feel when there isn’t any. Episodes of vertigo can be disorienting and sometimes severe, significantly impacting daily activities. Fortunately, physical therapy offers a pathway to manage vertigo by engaging techniques like vestibular rehabilitation, aimed at retraining the brain and improving balance without invasive procedures.

Common Causes of Dizziness and Vertigo

Dizziness and vertigo are common symptoms that can disrupt daily life unexpectedly. They can stem from a variety of causes, most of which are manageable with the right approach. By understanding the underlying reasons, you can work towards effectively treating these uncomfortable sensations.

Ear-Related Conditions

Many cases of dizziness and vertigo relate to ear-related conditions. Positional vertigo occurs when particles in the semicircular canals of the inner ear become dislodged, leading to dizzy spells with head movements. Vestibular neuritis and ear infections can also cause balance issues by affecting the vestibular nerve. Ear disorders often require targeted treatments, like vestibular rehabilitation, to restore balance and alleviate vertigo symptoms.

Circulatory Issues

Circulatory issues such as fluctuating blood pressure can lead to dizziness and vertigo. Low blood pressure, in particular, may reduce adequate blood flow to the brain, causing faintness. Circulatory problems are often addressed through lifestyle adjustments and, when necessary, with medications that stabilize blood pressure.

Neurological Disorders

Neurological disorders are another potential source of dizziness and vertigo. These may include vestibular migraines or conditions that impact the nervous system’s processing of balance information. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you experience severe vertigo or chronic dizziness, as these may signal a neurological issue requiring specific medical care.

Other Less Common Disorders

While less common, certain disorders such as a head injury or vestibular nerve tumors can lead to persistent dizziness and vertigo episodes. Additionally, anxiety and stress-related disorders can manifest in physical symptoms, including chronic dizziness. It’s crucial to explore these less common causes with a specialist if standard treatments don’t alleviate symptoms.
It’s completely normal to feel concerned when faced with these symptoms. Remember, effective management is possible, and consulting with a physical therapist can offer less invasive solutions. Always feel free to reach out with questions and seek the support you deserve.

Symptoms of Dizziness and Vertigo

Understanding the symptoms of dizziness and vertigo can be quite daunting. It’s completely normal to feel unsure about what’s happening in your body. Let’s break down the key symptoms so that you can have a clearer picture and feel more in control of your health.

Common Symptoms Described by Patients

• Dizziness and Imbalance
• Sense of Room Spinning
• Spatial Disorientation
• Audio/Visual Problems
• Tinnitus
• Migraine
• Cognitive Changes

Associated Symptoms and Red Flags

Some associated symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, or balance problems. If you notice severe headaches, double vision, or chest pain alongside vertigo, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical care, as these could indicate a more serious condition. Red flags also include sudden hearing loss, ear pain, or numbness, which may signify ear conditions like vestibular neuritis or an ear infection. If you experience these symptoms, please contact a healthcare professional right away to discuss your medical history for a thorough evaluation.

Evaluation and Diagnosis

Navigating vertigo and dizziness can feel overwhelming, but understanding how these conditions are evaluated and diagnosed can bring clarity. Physical therapists play a crucial role in identifying the causes through a comprehensive assessment. Understanding the foundation of the symptoms is key to developing a tailored treatment plan that can effectively address your specific needs and improve your quality of life.

Importance of Physical Examinations

Physical examinations are the cornerstone of evaluating vertigo and dizziness. During these exams, we focus on your balance, coordination, and inner ear function to gather important clues about potential causes. By observing how your body responds to different movements, we can identify the underlying issues, such as problems within the semicircular canals or vestibular nerve complications, offering a less invasive path to diagnosis.

Identifying Red Flags

While many episodes of vertigo and dizziness can be addressed through physical therapy, it’s essential to watch for red flags that may require immediate medical attention. Severe headaches, chest pain, or sudden loss of balance without any known cause should not be ignored. These symptoms could indicate conditions like a vestibular migraine or a more serious ear or head injury. Always err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional if you’re uncertain.

Diagnostic Tests and Imaging Techniques

If red flags are present or if the cause of your dizziness isn’t clear, further diagnostic tests may be needed. Common techniques include videonystagmography (VNG) or electronystagmography (ENG), which assess balance and eye movements. Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans are sometimes used to rule out structural issues within the brain or ear. These tests help create a comprehensive picture, ensuring that your treatment plan is as effective as possible.

 

How can physical therapy help?

Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT) is a form of physical therapy that is intended to alleviate issues caused by vestibular disorders. Programs are exercise-based and designed to reduce symptoms.

The goal of VRT is to identify each individual’s problem(s) and then create a custom program of guided movements and exercises to promote “compensation,” or actions that can compensate for the disorder to correct them. Before this program can be designed, a comprehensive clinical examination is done to pinpoint the issues related to the vestibular disorder and offer a diagnosis.

Depending on the vestibular-related disorder(s) identified, three primary methods of exercise can be prescribed. These methods, comprised of guided movements, exercises and practices, address the specific disorder(s) of each patient with the goal of alleviating immediate symptoms, decreasing the intensity and frequency of recurring symptoms, and teaching the patients ways to mitigate them on their own.

They include:
1) Habituation: aimed at treating dizziness and other symptoms by identifying certain movements that may be bringing on the symptoms, and then performing the movements in controlled sessions in order to “normalize” the brain’s response to them.
2) Gaze Stabilization: aimed at addressing symptoms that include bouncing or shaking vision, the patient is guided through exercises to improve control of eye movements so vision can be clear during head movement.
3) Balance Training: focused on identifying weaknesses and balance issues, and then performing guided exercises to strengthen and improve balance, while also assessing environmental fall risks.

*For BPPV (Vertigo), sessions may also include movements, exercises and best-practices for mitigating the “spinning-sensation” often associated with the disorder.

Vestibular Rehab Therapy often covers:

• Visual and/or somatosensory cues
• Stationary positions and dynamic movements
• Coordinated movement strategies (movements from ankles, hips, or a combination of both)
• Dual tasks (performing a task while balancing)
• Ability to walk on uneven ground or in the dark
• Balance while standing, bending, reaching, turning and walking

Management Strategies for Older Adults

Managing vertigo and dizziness in older adults requires a tailored approach due to their unique health needs. It’s important to consider age-related changes, such as decreased balance, which can exacerbate these conditions. Comprehensive assessment and individualized physical therapy plans can significantly improve outcomes.

Physical therapy is a non-invasive option that focuses on exercises to strengthen balance and coordination. Working with a physical therapist, older adults can learn safe movement strategies and exercises to mitigate dizziness. Tailored vestibular rehabilitation exercises can reduce symptoms and enhance overall stability.

Unique Considerations for Elderly Patients

Older patients may face additional challenges, such as multiple chronic conditions or medications that contribute to dizziness. It’s crucial to review their medical history thoroughly to identify potential interactions that could affect balance. This ensures a holistic approach to treatment.

Elderly patients might also experience a prolonged recovery time due to slower musculoskeletal and nervous system responses. Patience and consistent adherence to a gentle, incremental exercise regimen are key. Encouraging regular communication with healthcare providers will ensure that physical therapy is adapted to their pace and progress.

Urgent Situations

Experiencing vertigo or dizziness can be unsettling and, at times, may require urgent attention. Understanding when these sensations signify a medical emergency is crucial for your safety and well-being. While many cases of dizziness can be managed effectively with physical therapy, some situations demand immediate medical intervention.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

It’s essential to recognize the signs that necessitate prompt medical care. If you experience sudden, severe vertigo or dizziness accompanied by chest pain, arm or jaw pain, or shortness of breath, seek emergency medical help immediately. These could indicate serious conditions, such as a heart attack or stroke.

Additionally, if bouts of vertigo come with a severe headache, ear pain, loss of balance, or changes in vision, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Such symptoms could suggest more complex issues like a vestibular migraine, ear infection, or head injury that need urgent evaluation. Always prioritize your health and reach out for medical assistance when in doubt.

Risk Factors and Complications

Understanding the risk factors and potential complications associated with vertigo and dizziness is crucial for effective management and prevention. Awareness of these elements can guide individuals toward seeking timely help. When left unaddressed, these conditions can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

Identifying Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing vertigo and dizziness. Age is a significant contributor, with older adults being more susceptible due to changes in the inner ear and balance systems. Additionally, a history of ear infections or conditions like Vestibular neuritis can elevate risk. Prior head injuries or migraines are also common risk factors. Furthermore, certain medications and medical conditions such as high blood pressure can contribute to these issues.

Potential Complications of Untreated Conditions

Ignoring vertigo and dizziness might lead to severe complications. One major concern is the increased risk of falls, which can result in fractures or other injuries. Chronic dizziness can also cause persistent nausea, leading to weight loss and malnutrition. Moreover, these conditions can severely impact mental health, potentially causing anxiety or depression due to constant discomfort or fear of dizziness episodes. Addressing these symptoms promptly can prevent these complications and improve overall well-being.

The Bottom Line

If you’re experiencing a suspected vestibular issue, or if you have dizziness, headaches or balance issues, request an evaluation at your nearest PTSMC clinic and get an expert assessment. See a full list of our locations here.

Learn even more in this comprehensive presentation by Jen Ashman of PTSMC Simsbury below!