Dizziness is a general term that describes a range of sensations such as lightheadedness, faintness, or feeling unsteady or off-balance. It can also refer to a sense of spinning, or a feeling of movement or motion when there is none.

Some of the signs and symptoms of dizziness are:

1. Lightheadedness or feeling faint:

• • Feeling as if you are about to pass out or lose consciousness
  • Feeling weak or unsteady
  • Feeling as if your head is spinning or floating

2. A sensation of spinning or motion when you are standing still:

• • Feeling as if the room is spinning or moving around you
  • Feeling like you are moving or spinning even when you are standing still

3. Unsteadiness or feeling off-balance:

• • Feeling as if you are about to fall or lose your balance
  • Difficulty walking or standing
  • Feeling as if the ground is moving beneath your feet

4. Difficulty concentrating or confusion:

• • Feeling mentally foggy or unclear
  • Difficulty focusing or paying attention
  • Forgetfulness or memory problems

5. Nausea or vomiting:

• • Feeling nauseous or sick to your stomach
  • Vomiting or dry heaving

6. Sweating:

• • Profuse sweating or clammy skin
  • Feeling hot or cold

7. Blurred vision or visual disturbances:

• • Double vision or blurry vision
  • Seeing flashes of light or sensitivity to light

8. Weakness or fatigue:

• • Feeling weak or tired
  • Lack of energy or motivation

9. Ringing in the ears or hearing loss:

• • Hearing a buzzing or ringing sound in your ears
  • Hearing loss or muffled hearing

10. Anxiety or fear:

• • Feeling nervous or anxious
  • Feeling as if something is wrong or out of control
  • Panic attacks or hyperventilation

Dizziness can have many causes, including inner ear disorders, vestibular migraine, neurological conditions, and medication side effects. Physical therapy can effectively treat dizziness caused by certain conditions, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) and vestibular hypofunction.

Physical therapy for dizziness may involve exercises designed to improve balance, coordination, and strength. The specific exercises prescribed will depend on the underlying cause of the dizziness and the individual’s age, overall health, and other factors.

Talk to one of the physical therapy specialists at Vita today about treatment options for neck pain.