Dizziness
Dizziness is defined as the sensation of losing balance, feeling as though oneself or the surroundings are spinning (vertigo). This experience is often accompanied by visual disturbances, limb pain, nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, pale skin, and excessive sweating.
How Dizziness Occurs
Dizziness occurs due to a disturbance in the balance centers located in the inner ear, an area that determines proprioception and, in turn, the body’s equilibrium. Any dysfunction within this system can lead to dizziness. In certain situations, the causes of dizziness originate outside the inner ear. This can happen when the body is affected by conditions that alter blood flow to the head, particularly the brain, such as fluctuations in blood pressure—either high or low—anemia, or abnormalities in blood sugar levels.
Causes of Dizziness
Physical Causes
- Peripheral Dizziness: This type arises from disturbances in the ear, specifically affecting the vestibular nerve. It often presents with general hearing loss, except in cases of viral infections of the vestibular nerve.
- Central Dizziness: This occurs due to balance disruptions within the brain and may result from acute brain hemorrhage or tumors in the cerebellum.
- Genetic degeneration of the nervous system, alongside microbial infections affecting the brain, can lead to the accumulation of pus around central balance points. Conditions such as middle ear infections or heart muscle diseases may also contribute.
Non-Physical Causes
Dizziness can also arise from various non-physical factors related to daily living practices. These include persistent psychological and emotional stress, significant nosebleeds, impacts to the face, head, or neck, severe dehydration from inadequate fluid intake, excessive sun exposure—particularly between 11 AM and 4 PM—insomnia, substantial physical exertion without sufficient rest, and certain medications that have dizziness as a side effect. In such cases, it is advisable to ensure adequate sleep and relaxation, lower head positioning, and consider switching medications if they contribute to dizziness.
Video: Causes of Head Dizziness
Watch the video to learn about the causes of head dizziness: