1. Balance Disorders Slideshow
2. Take the Vertigo Quiz
3. Tinnitus Slideshow: Why Are My Ears Ringing?

In this Article

• What is a balance disorder?
• How does the vestibular system work?
• What are the symptoms of a balance disorder?
• What causes a balance disorder?
• What are some types of balance disorders?
• How is a balance disorder diagnosed?
• How is balance disorder treated?
• How do I know if I have a balance disorder?
• How can I help my doctor make a diagnosis?
• What research is being done for balance disorders?
• Patient Comments: Vestibular Balance Disorders - Diagnosis
• Patient Comments: Vestibular Balance Disorders - Cause
• Find a local Ear, Nose, & Throat Doctor in your town
• Vestibular Balance Disorders Index

Everyone has a dizzy spell now and then, but the term “dizziness” may mean something different to different people. For some people, dizziness might be a fleeting sensation of spinning, while for others it's intense and lasts a long time. Experts believe that more than four out of 10 Americans will experience an episode of dizziness significant enough to send them to a doctor.

To help you decide whether or not you should seek medical help for a dizzy spell, ask yourself the following questions. If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, talk to your doctor.

• Do I feel unsteady?
• Do I feel as if the room is spinning around me?
• Do I feel as if I'm moving when I know I'm sitting or standing still?
• Do I lose my balance and fall?
• Do I feel as if I'm falling?
• Do I feel “lightheaded” or as if I might faint?
• Do I have blurred vision?
• Do I ever feel disoriented, such as losing my sense of time or where I am?

You can help your doctor make a diagnosis and determine a treatment plan by answering the questions below. Be prepared to discuss this information during your appointment.

1. The best way I can describe my dizziness or balance problem is:

2. How often do I feel dizzy or have trouble keeping my balance?

3. Have I ever fallen? (When did I fall?)

• Under what conditions did I fall?
• How often have I fallen?

4. These are the medicines I take:

• (Include prescription medications and over-the-counter medicine, such as aspirin, antihistamines, or sleep aids.)

Name of medicine:

• How much (milligrams) and how often (times) per day:
• The condition I take this medicine for is:

Name of medicine:

• How much (milligrams) and how often (times) per day:
• The condition I take this medicine for is:

Name of medicine:

• How much (milligrams) and how often (times) per day:
• The condition I take this medicine for is:

At your appointment, take a minute to write down any instructions your doctor has given you. Be sure to ask any questions you have before you leave the office.