Dizziness is defined by MayoClinic.com as a range of sensations that can include lightheadedness, weakness, unsteadiness or spinning. Feelings of dizziness can often lead to nausea, which is why the two symptoms occur together frequently. Dizziness and nausea are common symptoms and do not usually indicate a serious condition; however, underlying condition may cause chronic dizziness and nausea that can interfere with daily functioning.
Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis is an inner ear disorder characterized by irritation and swelling of the part of the inner ear called the labyrinth. The irritation and swelling often occurs as a result of a middle ear infection, called otis media, or an upper respiratory infection, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. One of the functions of the labyrinth is to aid in maintaining balance. When the labyrinth is inflamed, balance becomes off and a variety of other symptoms develop. These symptoms include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, difficulty focusing, vertigo, hearing loss in the affected ear and ringing in the ears. Labyrinthitis is a temporary condition that usually disappears on its own, however, individual symptoms may require treatment if they are severe. This treatment consists of medications to correct dizziness, reduce inflammation and prevent nausea.
Benign Positional Vertigo
The inner ear contains fluid-filled tubes that are called semicircular canals. The fluid in the semicircular canals moves as the body moves to determine body position and aid in balance. Benign positional vertigo is a condition that occurs when calcium breaks free from an area of the body and moves into the semicircular canals, disrupting normal functioning, according to MedlinePlus website. Benign positional vertigo can develop as a result of head injury or previous ear infections. Symptoms of benign positional vertigo include dizziness that worsens with head movement, nausea and visual disturbances. Treatment for benign positional vertigo consists of a procedure called Epley’s maneuver, which is a series of head movements that are directed by a doctor or physical therapist. The head movements force the calcium out of the semicircular canal, which relieves symptoms. Medications may also be prescribed to treat individual symptoms while they persist.
Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by a number of debilitating physical symptoms. Possible physical symptoms include dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, chills, abdominal cramps, chest pain and tightness in the throat. Symptoms typically peak around 10 minutes after onset of the attack and last for approximately 30 minutes, according to MayoClinic.com. Panic attacks may occur at anytime, even times of rest, and it is unclear what triggers them. If panic attacks occur frequently, a condition called panic disorder may be diagnosed. Treatment for panic disorder usually consists of a combination of medications and therapy. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation, may also be helpful in controlling symptoms.
