What is the difference between dizziness and vertigo?

Dizziness is a sensation whereas vertigo is a condition. Spells of dizziness may be caused due to vertigo or other conditions such as anemia, low blood glucose & hypotension. All episodes of vertigo can cause dizziness as a symptom, but not all episodes of dizziness can be directly linked with vertigo.

How long does dizziness last?

Most spells of dizziness can range from a span of a few seconds to a few minutes. If dizziness is due to low blood sugar or low blood pressure, drinking a glass of water or electrolytes may help you stop feeling dizzy. If spells of dizziness last for a longer duration, you must consult a doctor immediately.

What is a quick way to relieve dizziness?

If you start feeling dizzy, drinking a glass of juice or electrolytes can provide relief and suffice the feeling. You can lie down for sometime, if possible. Do not try to move your neck suddenly or rapidly. If your dizziness does not resolve within a few minutes, it would be better to see a doctor.

Can improper posture cause dizziness?

Improper posture can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure which results in dizziness. Bad posture creates pressure on the arteries of the neck and causes neck pain and dizziness, in some people.

Can a person have dizzy spells all of a sudden?

Some of the common causes of dizziness are migraine, alcohol intake, and medications. Dizziness can also be caused by problems in the inner ear, where balance is regulated. It is often a result of vertigo, the most common cause of vertigo-related dizziness being benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV).

Dizziness

Written By Dr. Sakshi SharmaBDS

Reviewed By Dr. Varun Gupta

MD Pharmacology, MBBS

Last updated on: 19 Mar 2025 | 01:01 PM (IST)

Also known as Giddiness, Vertigo, Faintness, Lightheadedness, Unsteadiness, Dysequilibrium, Wooziness

Overview

Dizziness is a sensation of feeling off-balance, lightheaded, or giddy. Dizziness is not a disease but rather a symptom of various disorders. Most cases of dizziness are mild and occur as a one-and-off episode. Occasional dizziness is not something to worry about.

However, dizziness can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, headaches, weakness in the hands or legs, shortness of breath, and difficulty in speech. If dizziness is persistent for a prolonged period and interferes with the quality of life, it is essential to seek medical care.

The cause for dizziness must be investigated in such cases as it can sometimes be an underlying symptom of some other medical condition. The aim of the treatment is to treat the underlying cause.

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