Differential Diagnosis for Dizziness

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 be diagnosed with a thorough history and physical examination, including the Dix-Hallpike maneuver.

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 dizziness in patients with a history of migraines.
• Labyrinthitis: An inner ear disorder characterized by inflammation of the labyrinth, which can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus. It often follows a viral infection.
• Medication Side Effects: Various medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications, can cause dizziness as a side effect.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: A condition where blood pressure drops when standing up, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness. It can be due to dehydration, blood loss, or certain medications.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although less common, dizziness can be a symptom of a stroke or TIA, especially if accompanied by other neurological deficits such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty with speech.
• Meniere's Disease: A disorder of the inner ear that causes severe dizziness (vertigo), ringing in the ears (tinnitus), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. While not immediately life-threatening, it significantly impacts quality of life.
• Cardiac Arrhythmias: Certain heart rhythm disorders can cause dizziness due to inadequate blood flow to the brain.
• Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar can cause dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness if not promptly treated.

Rare Diagnoses

• Acoustic Neuroma: A non-cancerous tumor on the nerve connecting the inner ear to the brain, which can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
• Multiple Sclerosis: An autoimmune disease that can affect the brain and spinal cord, leading to a wide range of symptoms, including dizziness.
• Vestibular Schwannoma: A rare tumor on the vestibular nerve, which can cause vertigo, hearing loss, and balance problems.
• Mal de Debarquement Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by a persistent feeling of swaying or imbalance after a sea voyage or other motion experience.