Balance
Vertigo, dizziness, and balance
Dizziness can feel frightening, but a structured history and examination often help identify whether the inner ear is involved.
Dizziness may be caused by inner ear disorders, BPPV, vestibular neuritis, Meniere type symptoms, migraine, blood pressure changes, medicine effects, anxiety, or neurological disease.
01
Common symptoms
Room spinning
Nausea or vomiting
Imbalance while walking
Hearing loss or tinnitus
Headache or neurological symptoms
02
How ENT evaluation may be done
Detailed timing and trigger history
Ear and neurological screening
Positional tests when BPPV is suspected
Hearing test when ear symptoms are present
Referral for vestibular testing or imaging when needed
03
Treatment options
Canalith repositioning for BPPV
Medicines for acute severe symptoms
Vestibular exercises
Treatment of inner ear or migraine related causes
Referral if central features are suspected
04
Home care and preparation
Avoid driving during severe vertigo
Hydrate well
Rise slowly from bed
Record attack duration and triggers
05
Questions to ask during consultation
Is this ear related or neurological?
Do I have BPPV?
Do I need hearing or vestibular testing?
What exercises are safe?
Warning signs
When to seek urgent care
Emergency care is needed for dizziness with weakness, double vision, slurred speech, severe headache, chest pain, fainting, or inability to walk.
This page is for general educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional.