Home » Symptoms » Dizziness, Vertigo and Loss of Balance

Dizziness, Vertigo and Loss of Balance

Dizziness, vertigo, and losing balance are problems affecting the body’s balance and coordination, causing disorientation, spinning, or unsteadiness. While these issues share similar symptoms, their causes and treatments can differ.

Make Appointment

What do these mean?

Dizziness is a general term describing a range of sensations, such as being lightheaded, faint, or woozy. The underlying causes can vary, including dehydration, low blood sugar, anaemia, and anxiety.

Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness that causes a spinning or whirling sensation, often accompanied by feeling or being sick and difficulty standing or walking. The condition can result from problems with the inner ear, such as inflammation, an infection, or disruptions in the signals sent from the brain to the inner ear.

Losing balance refers to the inability to maintain stability while standing or walking, which can lead to falls and other accidents. It can result from various factors, such as muscle weakness, neurological conditions, or medications that affect balance.

Causes
Dizziness, vertigo, and loss of balance are typical symptoms of in-ear conditions, such as an infection or inflammation of the inner part of the ear. However, these symptoms could be an indicator of an underlining neurological condition. It’s important to diagnose this as soon as possible, as it can lead to further complications if left untreated.

The length of time you experience these symptoms can vary. Typically, dizziness should only last for a couple of days, but vertigo can occur for 3 to 14 days.

Some neurological causes of vertigo, dizziness, and loss of balance include:
Your symptoms may be worrying, but we are here for you in this process. We will conduct thorough assessments and listen to your concerns during your appointment.
Diagnosis
We understand it can be frustrating trying to get a definite diagnosis. Symptoms can vary from person to person, and you might experience them alongside other ailments. Up to one in ten people experience vertigo, dizziness, or loss of balance in any given year. We will aim to rule out any other conditions or factors that could be causing your symptoms first.

We do this by asking a series of questions in your first consultation. This might include:
- Your family history.
- When you first experienced these symptoms.
- What your symptoms are like.
- If you have noticed any particular triggers.
- If anything helps ease your symptoms.
We might also need to perform a physical examination, such as looking in your ear or looking at your eyes. Depending on your answers and what we find, we might suggest first tests. We will discuss these thoroughly with you.

The earlier we can get your diagnosis, the sooner we can help support your treatment and management of symptoms.
When to seek help

It is important to seek medical attention if your symptoms persist longer than normal, you’re finding it hard to hear or speak, or you’re experiencing symptoms in other parts of your body like your vision or face, arms, and legs.

We are here to support you and help you find the right diagnosis and treatment for your condition.
Treatment

Effective treatment for dizziness, vertigo, and losing balance depends on the underlying cause. Dehydration can be treated with fluids and electrolytes, while inner ear infections may require antibiotics or antiviral medications.

You may also benefit from physical therapy and exercises to improve your balance and coordination. Additionally, we can prescribe medications such as anti-nausea drugs or vestibular suppressants to ease symptoms.

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical advice from your local GP, NHS services, or a private doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. In the meantime, avoid sudden movements, stay hydrated, and take breaks when tired or dizzy.

Contact Us

Ten Harley Street Limited
10 Harley Street
London W1G 9PF
United Kingdom

Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Call: 07954 847 479