Dizziness & Balance Disorders

Dizziness, sometimes called vertigo, is a common yet complex issue affecting millions annually in the U.S., particularly those over 70. Inner ear and balance system issues cause the brain to receive incorrect signals, leading to a spinning sensation or faintness. Health conditions like low blood pressure, anemia, dehydration, and endocrine disorders (diabetes, thyroid disease) can also cause balance problems, as can certain neurological conditions and medications.

Since dizziness is often a symptom of an underlying cause, treatment focuses on identifying the source — options include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. For benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), repositioning exercises can be effective. Identifying the exact cause can be tricky and often requires specialized diagnostic equipment.

Not all dizziness comes from the inner ear. Low blood pressure, dehydration, anemia, medication side effects, and neurological conditions can all cause similar sensations, and those are better addressed with your primary care provider or a neurologist. An ENT evaluation is most useful when the dizziness has a spinning quality (vertigo), changes with head position, or comes with hearing changes or ringing in the ears — signs that point toward the inner ear specifically.

For more on vertigo, BPPV, tinnitus, and Meniere's disease, our network site carries detailed guides: enturgent.com/hearing-balance/