Introduction

Dizziness is a symptom, not a disease. It may be defined as a subjective sensation of unsteadiness or imbalance, or a disorientation in relation to one’s surroundings. Dizziness can be caused by many different diseases and varies from a mild unsteadiness to a severe whirling sensation known as “vertigo.”

Metabolic Disturbances and Allergies

Metabolic disturbances and allergies can produce dizziness, with or without associated hearing loss, by interfering with the function of the inner ear or in central connections. Occasionally hearing loss may occur without the presence of dizziness.

The most common metabolic disturbances are a result of decreased thyroid function, abnormal sugar tolerance, and inhalant or food allergies.

Thyroid dysfunction is diagnosed by blood tests. Treatment consists of thyroid hormone. Abnormal sugar tolerance is diagnosed by blood sugar studies (glucose tolerance test). Treatment consists of diet control, with or without drug therapy.

Allergies may be diagnosed by blood tests or skin tests for inhalants and foods. Treatment consists of elimination of the offending agents when possible. If avoidance of these agents is not possible, then extracts of the different substances may be administered by injection to stimulate immunity.

Injury

Injury to head occasionally results in dizziness due to damage to the inner ear and its blood vessels. The unsteadiness is at times prolonged, and may or may not be associated with hearing loss and head noises. Treatment consists of vasodilators, sedatives and anti-dizzy medication. The symptoms usually disappear but occasionally surgery (vestibular nerve section) may be necessary.

Perilymphatic Fistula

Dizziness, with or without hearing impairment, may result from a perilymphatic fistula