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Last updated: June 11, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Dizzy Spells

Single most likely diagnosis

  • Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This condition is characterized by brief, episodic vertigo triggered by specific head movements. It's a common cause of dizziness and can occur without warning, making it a likely candidate for the described symptoms.

Other Likely diagnoses

  • Vestibular Migraine: A condition that involves vertigo, often accompanied by headache, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes, visual auras. It's a common cause of episodic dizziness.
  • Orthostatic Hypotension: A drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness. This can be due to dehydration, medication, or autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
  • Anxiety or Panic Disorder: Anxiety and panic attacks can cause dizziness, among other symptoms like palpitations, sweating, and fear of losing control.

Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)

  • Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although less common, a stroke or TIA can present with sudden onset of dizziness, among other neurological deficits. Prompt recognition is crucial for timely intervention.
  • Cardiac Arrhythmias: Certain heart rhythm disturbances can lead to reduced blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness. Conditions like atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia require immediate medical attention.
  • Multiple Sclerosis: An autoimmune disease that can affect the brain and spinal cord, leading to a wide range of symptoms, including dizziness. Early diagnosis is important for management and prognosis.

Rare diagnoses

  • Meniere's Disease: A disorder of the inner ear that affects balance and hearing, leading to episodes of vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss, and ear fullness. It's less common than other causes of dizziness but can significantly impact quality of life.
  • Acoustic Neuroma: A benign tumor on the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain, which can cause dizziness, hearing loss, and tinnitus. It's rare but important to diagnose due to its potential impact on hearing and neurological function.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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