Common Causes of Dizziness and When to Worry

“Dizziness” covers spinning (vertigo), lightheadedness, or imbalance. Most causes are benign, but some are emergencies.

Summary

Brief spinning with head movement often indicates BPPV; add red-flag symptoms (stroke signs, chest pain, severe headache) and it becomes urgent.

Common causes

• BPPV: brief spinning triggered by rolling over or looking up
• Vestibular neuritis/labyrinthitis: inner-ear inflammation from a virus
• Low blood pressure/dehydration: standing too quickly, illness, meds
• Migraine: with or without headache
• Anemia, low blood sugar, medication side effects

Red flags — seek urgent care

• Sudden severe dizziness with speech trouble, weakness, facial droop, vision loss (possible stroke)
• New, worst headache, neck stiffness, confusion
• Chest pain, palpitations, or fainting
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down

Self-care for mild symptoms

• Hydrate; rise slowly; avoid driving until steady
• Review meds (BP pills, sedatives) with your clinician
• Clinicians may teach Epley or other maneuvers for BPPV

FAQs

How do I know if it’s vertigo? Spinning made worse by head movement suggests vertigo.
Can anxiety cause dizziness? Yes—after other causes are ruled out.

References (plain text, no live links)

• American Academy of Neurology — dizziness and vertigo patient resources.
• National Health Service (NHS) — dizziness/vertigo overview and self-care.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) — dehydration and illness guidance.

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Educational only; not a substitute for professional medical advice. EOF