Tips & Techniques

Diagnosed With Vertigo?

Dana Tress 
 • 
April 27, 2022
Diagnosed With Vertigo?

Have you or someone you know been told they have “vertigo”?  Vertigo itself means a sensation of spinning.  But, it is not actually a diagnosis.  Vertigo, part of a category of dizziness symptoms,  is an indicator of some type of problem.  There are many disorders of the vestibular system and central nervous system that can cause a sensation of spinning.  Some of these disorders include:

  • Acoustic neuroma
  • BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)
  • Vestibular neuritis
  • Labyrinthitis
  • Mèniére’s Disease
  • Superior canal dehiscence
  • Vestibular Migraine
  • Brain tumor
  • Stroke

Any new onset of vertigo should be taken seriously and be evaluated by a qualified medical professional.  It is a scary symptom that can make you feel very out of control of your body, even when the vertigo itself lasts for seconds at a time.  Being able to describe the sensation you are experiencing offers important clues about the cause of your vertigo.  

Not every vestibular or brain disorder causes vertigo.  Sometimes, the dizziness sensation that you feel could be better described by using another word.  If your dizziness does not feel like a spinning sensation (vertigo), does it feel like: 

  • Rocking
  • Swaying
  • Imbalance
  • Lightheaded
  • Unsteadiness
  • Heavy headed
  • Brain fog
  • Faint
  • Anxiousness
  • Feeling “off”

If you ever experience a sensation of vertigo or other forms of dizziness, make sure to get it checked out.  If you are unsure of where to start, please let us know at the Balance + Concussion Center.  We are always happy to help!

Meet the Author
Dana Tress, PT, MS, CEAS, AIB-CON is a physical therapist specializing in the management of concussion, balance dysfunction, headaches and dizziness in Crystal Lake, Illinois at Smith Physical Therapy Balance + Concussion Center, an award winner in concierge physical therapy services for McHenry County and surrounding regions.
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