Dizziness can be characterized by several different sensations. Vertigo is the feeling of motion or spinning when it is not present. Disequilibrium, characterized by being off balance or unsteady, may be termed dizziness. Presyncope is the medical term for feeling faint, or like you might pass out. Lightheadedness is a term used to describe other feelings of being "spacey" or disconnected from the surroundings. Each of these symptoms has its own set of possible causes.
Vertigo
According to "American Family Physician," about half of patients with dizziness actually have vertigo. The most common cause of vertigo, notes MayoClinic.com, is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. This is a disorder in which the motion-sensing organ in the inner ear malfunctions. It is not dangerous, and typically resolves with time. A viral infection of the inner ear is another common cause of vertigo. Like the common cold, it is annoying but not serious. Meniere's disease is characterized by vertigo and hearing loss. Treatment for it can be quite challenging. Migrainous vertigo, related to migraine headache, may be associated with sound or light sensitivity.
Disequilibrium
A stroke or transient ischemic attack may produce a loss of balance. Parkinson's disease is another brain disorder that can lead to balance problems and falls. It is usually seen with an associated tremor, rigidity and slowed movements. Vision loss may lead to trouble with walking and balance, as can peripheral neuropathy, which disrupts the body's sense of where it is in space. A condition called normal pressure hydrocephalus causes disequilibrium, incontinence and dementia. Numerous medications can disrupt balance. Antidepressants, anti-seizure medicines, sedatives and tranquilizers are notorious for causing unsteadiness, especially in the elderly.
Presyncope
The feeling of losing consciousness commonly occurs when a person stands up too fast and the brain temporarily does not have enough blood flow. Taken to the extreme, this condition is known as orthostatic hypotension. It can result from dehydration, heart problems or certain medications, such as those that treat high blood pressure. Heart rhythm disturbances, heart attack or some valve disorders may also precipitate the feeling of faintness. Narrowing of the carotid arteries could lead to the same result.
Lightheadedness
This form of dizziness is difficult to describe and may mean different things to different people. It may be described as a vague floating or swimming sensation. Anxiety, panic and depression are common causes. Hyperventilation, from anxiety or another factor, may lead to dizziness of this type. Medication side effects may lead to lightheadedness. Sometimes, these symptoms can develop as a result of inner ear disorders.
