Vertigo is a type of dizziness that makes you feel as though you or the world around you is spinning or moving when it isn’t. It’s often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sweating. There are many causes of vertigo, ranging from minor to serious medical conditions. In this article, we’ll discuss the 10 most common causes of vertigo.
1. Inner ear problems
Inner ear problems are the most common cause of vertigo. They can be caused by infections, inflammation, or changes in fluid pressure in the ear. Meniere’s disease, a disorder of the inner ear that causes vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears), is a common inner ear problem that affects many people.
2. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
BPPV is a common cause of vertigo, especially in older adults. It occurs when small calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged and move into the fluid-filled canals that control balance. This can cause brief episodes of vertigo that are triggered by changes in head position.
3. Migraines
Migraines are a common type of headache that can cause vertigo, among other symptoms. Vestibular migraines, in particular, can cause intense vertigo, dizziness, and balance problems.
4. Vestibular neuritis
Vestibular neuritis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which connects the inner ear to the brain. It can cause sudden, severe vertigo, nausea, and vomiting.
5. Meniere’s disease
Meniere’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes vertigo, hearing loss, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. It’s thought to be caused by an accumulation of fluid in the inner ear.
6. Head injuries
Head injuries can damage the inner ear or the brain and cause vertigo. Concussions, for example, can cause dizziness, nausea, and balance problems that can last for weeks or months.
7. Medications
Certain medications can cause vertigo as a side effect. Antibiotics, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications are some examples.
8. Anxiety and panic disorders
Anxiety and panic disorders can cause vertigo, along with other symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, and chest pain. These symptoms can be triggered by stress, fear, or other emotional factors.
9. Dehydration
Dehydration can cause vertigo, especially in hot weather or during intense physical activity. When you’re dehydrated, the fluid levels in your body can become imbalanced, which can affect your inner ear and lead to dizziness and lightheadedness.
10. Low blood sugar
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause vertigo, along with other symptoms such as confusion, weakness, and sweating. This can happen if you go too long without eating or if you have diabetes and your blood sugar drops too low.
In conclusion, vertigo can be caused by many different factors, ranging from inner ear problems to head injuries to anxiety and panic disorders. If you experience vertigo or other symptoms of dizziness, it’s important to speak with your doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
