Dizziness can be caused by a wide range of factors affecting the body's balance system, blood flow, or neurological function. Common causes include:
- Inner ear problems such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's disease, labyrinthitis, vestibular neuritis, and ear infections, which disrupt balance signals to the brain
- Low blood pressure (hypotension) , which reduces blood flow to the brain, causing lightheadedness or faintness
- Dehydration or overheating , leading to reduced blood volume and dizziness
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) , especially in people with diabetes, which can cause dizziness with sweating and anxiety
- Anemia (low iron levels) , which decreases oxygen delivery to the brain and causes fatigue and dizziness
- Medications such as anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants, sedatives, blood pressure medicines, and muscle relaxants can have dizziness as a side effect
- Anxiety and stress , including panic attacks and agoraphobia, which may cause lightheadedness or a woozy feeling
- Motion sickness from travel or movement, causing dizziness and nausea
- Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, or brain tumors may cause dizziness, though these are less common causes
- Infections , including viral illnesses like COVID-19 or the flu, and bacterial or viral ear infections can cause dizziness due to inflammation or dehydration
- Carbon monoxide poisoning , which causes dizziness along with headache, weakness, and confusion, is a medical emergency
Less common causes include concussions, cardiovascular disease, and certain nutrient deficiencies. Dizziness can manifest as lightheadedness, a spinning sensation (vertigo), or loss of balance, depending on the underlying cause
. If dizziness is severe, recurrent, or accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain, confusion, or weakness, medical evaluation is advised to rule out serious conditions