What etiologies cause vertigo (dizziness) when arms are elevated above the head?

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Dainyal Siddiqui, MD

Internal Medicine

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Manuel Jimenez, MD

Cardiology

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Franz Pierre-Louis, MD

Infectious Disease

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Last updated: March 28, 2025 • View editorial policy

Differential Diagnosis for Dizziness with Arms Raised Above Head

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis + Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS): This condition is characterized by compression of the subclavian artery or vein, and/or the brachial plexus, between the clavicle and the first rib. Raising the arms above the head can exacerbate the compression, leading to dizziness due to decreased blood flow to the brain.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses + Vasovagal Syncope: This is a common cause of dizziness and fainting, often triggered by specific actions or positions. Raising the arms above the head can lead to a vasovagal response, resulting in dizziness. + Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition is characterized by a drop in blood pressure when standing up or changing positions. Raising the arms above the head can further decrease blood pressure, leading to dizziness. + Cervical Spondylosis: This condition involves wear and tear on the cervical spine, which can lead to compression of the vertebral arteries. Raising the arms above the head can exacerbate the compression, resulting in dizziness.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses + Subclavian Steal Syndrome: This is a rare condition where the subclavian artery is compressed or occluded, leading to reversal of blood flow in the vertebral artery. Raising the arms above the head can worsen the condition, resulting in dizziness and potentially leading to stroke or other serious complications. + Aortic Dissection: This is a life-threatening condition where the aorta tears, leading to severe pain and potentially fatal complications. Dizziness can be a symptom, and raising the arms above the head may exacerbate the condition.
  • Rare Diagnoses + Arnold-Chiari Malformation: This is a rare congenital condition where the cerebellum extends into the spinal canal, potentially compressing the brainstem and leading to dizziness. Raising the arms above the head can worsen the compression, resulting in dizziness. + Multiple System Atrophy (MSA): This is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that can cause orthostatic hypotension, leading to dizziness when changing positions or raising the arms above the head.

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