From the Guidelines
Dizziness can be caused by various conditions, including benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, labyrinthitis, Meniere's disease, migraines, and other inner ear, brain, or cardiovascular system disorders, as outlined in a 2020 clinical practice guideline on Meniere's disease 1. The causes of dizziness can be diverse and complex, and a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause.
- Common causes of dizziness include:
- Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), where calcium crystals in the inner ear become dislodged
- Vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, which are inner ear infections
- Meniere's disease, characterized by fluid buildup in the inner ear
- Migraines
- Anxiety disorders
- Low blood pressure
- Anemia
- Dehydration
- Medication side effects
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Other potential causes include carbon monoxide poisoning, hyperventilation, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis or stroke, as noted in a 2017 clinical practice guideline on BPPV 1. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly if you experience persistent or severe dizziness, as the appropriate treatment depends on the underlying cause, and understanding the specific trigger for your dizziness is crucial for effective treatment 1. For temporary relief, sitting or lying down immediately when feeling dizzy, avoiding sudden movements, staying hydrated, and ensuring adequate rest can help alleviate symptoms.
- Effective treatment may include vestibular rehabilitation exercises, medication, dietary changes, or addressing an underlying condition, and a healthcare professional can help determine the best course of treatment.
- A thorough otologic history and physical examination should evaluate for neurologic, neurotologic/otologic, oncologic, inflammatory, or infectious or vascular causes, as outlined in the 2020 clinical practice guideline on Meniere's disease 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
May cause drowsiness: Use caution when driving a car or operating dangerous machinery (5. 1). Common adverse reactions are anaphylactic reaction, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, and vomiting. The causes of dizziness are not explicitly stated in the drug label, but drowsiness is mentioned as a common adverse reaction, which can be associated with dizziness.
- Drowsiness
- CNS depression (when coadministered with other CNS depressants) 2
From the Research
Causes of Dizziness
- Dizziness is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors, including:
- These conditions can cause dizziness due to their impact on the vestibular system, inner ear, or brain, and can be diagnosed through a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and diagnostic maneuvers such as the Dix-Hallpike maneuver or supine roll test 4, 5
- Treatment options for dizziness vary depending on the underlying cause, but may include repositioning techniques, lifestyle and diet modification, avoidance of triggers, and medication such as vestibular-suppressive drugs and anticonvulsants 4, 5