Differential Diagnosis for 24 y/o Female with Dizziness
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): This is a common cause of dizziness, especially in young adults, and is often triggered by specific head movements.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Vestibular Migraine: A condition that can cause dizziness, vertigo, and other symptoms similar to migraines, but without the headache.
- Labyrinthitis: An inner ear disorder that can cause dizziness, vertigo, and hearing loss.
- Anxiety or Panic Disorder: These conditions can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially if the patient is experiencing anxiety or panic attacks.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although less common in young adults, a stroke or TIA can cause sudden dizziness or vertigo and is a medical emergency.
- Multiple Sclerosis: A condition that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including dizziness and vertigo, and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Cardiac Arrhythmias: Certain heart rhythm disorders can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially if they lead to a decrease in cardiac output.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Meniere's Disease: A disorder of the inner ear that can cause dizziness, vertigo, and hearing loss, but is less common in young adults.
- Acoustic Neuroma: A rare tumor that can cause dizziness, vertigo, and hearing loss, especially if it compresses the vestibular nerve.
- Mal de Debarquement Syndrome: A rare condition that can cause dizziness and vertigo after a period of motion, such as a boat ride or travel.