Vertigo (also known as dizziness) is a condition that causes an individual to feel like she is "spinning." Vertigo is a result of problems with some of the signals that the brain uses to figure out the position and orientation of the body. Most cases of vertigo are caused by problems with the inner ear, the brain or the eyes.
Inner-Ear Problems
Vertigo can be caused by a problem with the inner ear. The inner ear is responsible for helping the body determine its position and orientation, and inner ear problems can throw off these signals. Head trauma can cause inner ear damage, leading to vertigo. Some viruses are able to infect a portion of the inner ear called the labyrinth, leading to a condition known as labyrinthitis, which is another cause of vertigo. Some antibiotics (called aminoglycosides) can also cause vertigo. The Mayo Clinic also explains that Meniere's disease, which is caused by a buildup of fluid in the inner ear, can also cause short bursts of vertigo.
Vestibular Nerve Disorders
The vestibular nerve is responsible for transmitting balance signals from the inner ear to the brain. As a result, problems with vestibular nerves can lead to sensations of vertigo. Medline Plus explains that inflammation of the vestibular nerve (possibly due to a viral infection) can cause vertigo. Some tumors or growths (such as schwannomas) can also cause compression of the vestibular nerve, leading to vertigo.
Hyperventilation
Vestibular.org explains that hyperventilation can also cause vertigo because of decreased levels of carbon dioxide. This lowered amount of carbon dioxide in the blood alters nerve function.
Decreased Brain Blood Flow
Low blood flow to the brain can also lead to vertigo. Impaired blood flow causes lower amounts of oxygen to be delivered to the brain, leading to brain cells having mild dysfunction that often manifests itself as dizziness. Causes of impaired blood flow to the brain include standing up suddenly after lying down, blood vessel disease and dehydration.
Visual Problems
Visual disturbances can also lead to vertigo. For example, a person may experience bouts of vertigo while he is adjusting to a new eyeglass prescription or bifocals. This is because the eyes also send signals to the brain that are used to help determine the body's position and orientation.
