Vertigo, Dizziness & Balance

Vertigo and dizziness are not diagnoses but symptoms, similar to a headache. These sensations can arise from various underlying conditions. What is the difference between dizziness and vertigo? Dizziness is a general feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness, while vertigo specifically involves a spinning or rotating sensation, either of the individual or their surroundings. Many people describe vertigo as feeling like they've just stepped off a merry-go-round, with the world seemingly spinning around them. This symptom is often linked to inner ear issues caused by fluid buildup or infections.

A range of inner ear conditions can lead to vertigo. The most common include:

• Benign Positional Vertigo (BPV): Often triggered by head movements, BPV is caused by small calcium crystals moving within the inner ear.
• Meniere's Disease: Characterized by fluid buildup in the inner ear, Meniere's disease can cause episodes of vertigo, along with hearing loss and tinnitus.
• Labyrinthitis: This inner ear infection causes inflammation, leading to sudden vertigo and often affecting hearing.
• Vestibular Neuronitis: An infection of the vestibular nerve that disrupts balance, causing severe vertigo.

While inner ear issues are common culprits, non-ear-related factors can also play a role. For instance, can high blood pressure cause vertigo? Yes, cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure can lead to dizziness or vertigo by affecting blood flow to the brain. Other non-ear causes of vertigo include Migraine Associated Vertigo (MAD), where migraines trigger vertigo episodes, and cervical vertigo, related to neck problems affecting balance.

Causes of Vertigo and Dizziness

Apart from inner ear problems and cardiovascular issues, other factors can also lead to vertigo:

• Can a sinus infection cause vertigo? Yes, sinus infections can sometimes result in vertigo due to inflammation and pressure affecting the ear structures responsible for balance.
• Can stress cause vertigo? Stress does not directly cause vertigo, but high stress levels can exacerbate symptoms or trigger related issues like migraines, which in turn cause vertigo.

Given the numerous potential causes, diagnosing vertigo and dizziness requires a thorough evaluation. At ENT of Georgia South, our team of ENT vertigo specialists employs a multi-disciplinary approach. Information from a patient's medical history, bedside assessments, audiometric tests, and balance (vestibular) tests, along with radiographic imaging, helps in forming a comprehensive diagnosis. In complex cases, consultation with specialists in fields like neurology or cardiology may be necessary to pinpoint the underlying cause accurately.

Treatment Options for Vertigo and Dizziness

Once a clear diagnosis is achieved, an individualized treatment plan can be formulated. Treatment options for vertigo vary based on the cause and severity of symptoms. The ENT vertigo specialists at ENT of Georgia South offer the following treatments:

1. Balance Rehabilitation Therapy: Often used for vestibular disorders, balance rehabilitation helps retrain the brain to maintain balance despite disruptions from inner ear issues.
2. Repositioning Maneuvers: These maneuvers are particularly effective for conditions like BPV. By carefully repositioning the head, these exercises help move displaced inner ear crystals back to their proper location.
3. Dietary Recommendations and Medications: For Meniere's disease, a low-sodium diet can help reduce fluid buildup, while medications may help manage symptoms. Anti-nausea medications or vestibular suppressants are also sometimes prescribed to reduce severe vertigo symptoms.
4. Middle Ear (Intratympanic) Injections: Certain medications can be injected into the middle ear to help control vertigo, especially for cases unresponsive to other treatments.
5. Surgical Options: In severe cases, surgery may be considered to correct underlying structural issues in the ear.

If you're experiencing symptoms of dizziness or vertigo, it's essential to seek professional care. At ENT of Georgia South, we understand that managing balance issues requires expertise and a patient-centered approach. Our ENT vertigo specialists are equipped to help diagnose the root causes of your symptoms and guide you through the best treatment options available.